Bournemouth and Ipswich Gear Up for Crucial League Clash

BOURNEMOUTH, England — AFC Bournemouth is set to host Ipswich Town on April 2, 2025, as they aim for a much-needed league victory following a recent FA Cup defeat. The match, held at Vitality Stadium, is crucial for both clubs, with Bournemouth seeking to stabilize their mid-table position in the Premier League and Ipswich fighting to avoid relegation.

After missing the FA Cup quarter-final against Manchester City due to suspension, Bournemouth welcomes back defenders Miloš Kerkez and Dean Huijsen. Manager Andoni Iraola‘s squad has struggled in recent weeks, failing to secure a win in their last four outings, most recently losing to Brentford. They currently sit in 10th place with 44 points, just one point away from European qualification.

“This match is important for our aspirations,” Iraola said. “We need to find our rhythm and collect points to push for higher positions in the league.”

Despite featuring in the last game, Justin Kluivert is doubtful for this encounter. Meanwhile, striker Enes Ünal remains a long-term absentee due to injury.

Ipswich Town, currently placed 18th and desperate for points, has not won in 2025, with just two draws from ten games. The Tractor Boys last played on March 15, losing 4-2 to Nottingham Forest. Manager Kieran McKenna expressed concern over his team’s performance.

“Our situation is dire, and we are fully aware that we need to turn things around as soon as possible,” McKenna stated. “Every match counts from here on out.”

Kalvin Phillips, who suffered a gashed foot in the match against Nottingham Forest, will be monitored ahead of kick-off. Additionally, defenders Axel Tuanzebe and Conor Chaplin have returned to training after their respective injuries but are yet to be confirmed for the match day squad.

Statistically, Bournemouth holds a slight edge over Ipswich in their head-to-head record, having won 12 of their last 39 encounters. The last meeting saw Bournemouth claim a 2-1 victory, highlighting their potential to accomplish a league double over Ipswich for the first time in 75 years.

The Cherries’ recent squad also features impactful players such as Ryan Christie and Antoine Semenyo, although both could miss future fixtures if cautioned during the match.

As the upcoming match is pivotal, fans from both sides have high hopes. Bournemouth supporters are looking for a return to form, while Ipswich fans are pleading for their side to avoid dropping back into the Championship.

The match kicks off at 19:45 BST, with both teams ready to collide in an intensely competitive fixture.