Bournemouth Faces Nottingham Forest in Crucial Premier League Clash

BOURNEMOUTH, England — Bournemouth will make a late decision on midfielder Marcus Tavernier‘s availability as they prepare to host Nottingham Forest in a pivotal Premier League match on Saturday, January 25, 2025. Tavernier, who has been sidelined with a hamstring injury, returned to training this week, but his participation remains uncertain.

The Cherries are also monitoring the fitness of Adam Smith, Luis Sinisterra, and Alex Scott, all of whom are nearing returns but remain on the injury list. Defender Julio Soler is unavailable as he competes in the South American Under-20 Championship.

Nottingham Forest, meanwhile, face their own injury concerns. Winger Callum Hudson-Odoi is a doubt after suffering a groin problem during last weekend’s win over Southampton. Midfielder Ibrahim Sangare remains sidelined following hamstring surgery last year.

This match pits two unlikely Champions League contenders against each other. Bournemouth, currently seventh in the league with 37 points, are on an impressive 10-game unbeaten run, including six wins and four draws. Their recent 4-1 victory over Newcastle United showcased their attacking prowess and defensive solidity.

Nottingham Forest, sitting third with 44 points, have been formidable on the road this season, winning seven and losing only two of their away matches. Under manager Nuno Espirito Santo, Forest have relied on a counter-attacking style, which has yielded three consecutive clean sheets in away games.

The two teams last met in August 2024, playing to a 1-1 draw at the City Ground. Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo scored a late equalizer in that match, highlighting the Cherries’ resilience. Forest will be eager to avenge that result and maintain their push for a top-four finish.

Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola expressed confidence in his team’s form, saying, ‘We’ve been consistent and fearless in our approach. This is a big test, but we’re ready.’ Nuno Espirito Santo, meanwhile, emphasized the importance of discipline, stating, ‘We know Bournemouth’s strengths, but we have our own game plan to execute.’

With both teams in strong form, this clash at Vitality Stadium promises to be a thrilling encounter with significant implications for the Premier League table.