AFC Bournemouth vs. Chelsea: Match Preview, Lineups, and How to Watch

After almost two weeks without Premier League action, Chelsea fans are eagerly waiting to see their team back on the pitch. With the international break over, Chelsea is ready to face AFC Bournemouth at Dean Court in what promises to be an exciting clash. The break gave players who stayed behind at the club some much-needed rest, and they should be well-prepared to put on a show for the fans.

However, one notable absence in the Chelsea lineup is star midfielder Enzo Fernández. Fernández, who has been a key player for Chelsea, is not starting today, and his place in midfield will be taken by Renato Veiga. Despite this change, Chelsea fans will be hoping their team can secure all three points and keep pushing up the Premier League table.

Let’s take a closer look at the confirmed lineups, what to expect from both teams, and how you can watch the match.

AFC Bournemouth’s Starting XI

Bournemouth has named a solid lineup for this match. Here’s how they will line up:

- Goalkeeper: Travers

- Defenders: Kerkez, Senesi, Zabarnyi, Smith (Captain)

- Midfielders: Christie, Cook, Tavernier

- Forwards: Kluivert, Semenyo, Evanilson

Bournemouth has opted for a mix of experienced players and young talents. The defense will be led by captain Smith, with Kerkez, Senesi, and Zabarnyi providing additional strength at the back. In midfield, Christie, Cook, and Tavernier will be responsible for controlling the game and creating chances for their forwards. Up front, Kluivert, Semenyo, and Evanilson will be looking to trouble the Chelsea defense.

Bournemouth will likely focus on a defensive approach, looking to catch Chelsea on the counter-attack. They will need to be sharp in defense while also making the most of their attacking opportunities.

Chelsea’s Starting XI

Chelsea will line up in what appears to be a 4-2-3-1 formation. Here’s how they will take the field:

- Goalkeeper: Sánchez

- Defenders: Disasi, Fofana, Colwill, Cucurella

- Midfielders: Veiga, Caicedo (Captain)

- Attacking Midfielders: Palmer, Madueke, Neto

- Forward: Jackson

Chelsea’s defense will feature Disasi, Fofana, Colwill, and Cucurella, who will be looking to keep things tight at the back. The midfield pairing of Renato Veiga and captain Moisés Caicedo will be key in dictating the tempo of the game. Veiga is stepping in for the absent Enzo Fernández, so all eyes will be on him to see how he performs in such an important role.

In the attacking third, Palmer, Madueke, and Neto will be supporting striker Jackson, who will be leading the line for Chelsea. The pace and creativity of Palmer and Madueke will be crucial in breaking down Bournemouth’s defense, while Jackson will be looking to add to his goal tally.

Players to Watch

Renato Veiga (Chelsea):With Enzo Fernández missing, Veiga has a big opportunity to prove his worth in midfield. He will need to control the game and provide support both defensively and offensively.

Justin Kluivert (Bournemouth): Kluivert’s pace and technical ability can cause problems for Chelsea’s defense. If Bournemouth is going to get anything from this game, Kluivert will need to be at his best.

Moisés Caicedo (Chelsea): As Chelsea’s captain for the day, Caicedo will have extra responsibility. His leadership in midfield will be crucial, especially in breaking up Bournemouth’s counter-attacks and setting up Chelsea’s attacks.

How to Watch the Match

Fans around the world will be able to watch the match on various platforms. Here’s where you can catch the action:

UK: Sky Sports Main Event

USA: No TV broadcast, but you can stream it on Peacock.

India: Star Sports Select HD1 or stream on Hotstar.

Nigeria: SuperSport Premier League, Canal+ Sport 3, or stream on DStv Now.

If you’re in the UK, Sky Sports Main Event is the go-to channel, while in the USA, Peacock will be streaming the match. Indian fans can tune in on Star Sports or Hotstar, and Nigerian viewers can catch the action on SuperSport or Canal+.

Match Expectations

Chelsea will be aiming to bounce back after a slightly inconsistent start to the season. The international break may have helped the team regroup and recover, and manager Mauricio Pochettino will be expecting a strong performance from his players. Although Enzo Fernández is absent, Chelsea’s lineup still looks strong, with plenty of talent in both defense and attack.

Bournemouth, on the other hand, will be looking to frustrate Chelsea and perhaps nick a goal on the counter. They are the underdogs in this fixture but have the home advantage, which could play a big role in their performance. If they can keep things tight at the back and take their chances, they might be able to cause an upset.

Key Details

Date / Time: Saturday, September 14, 2024, 8:00 PM BST (UK); 3:00 PM EDT (USA); 12:30 AM IST (next day, India)

Venue: Vitality Stadium (Dean Court), Bournemouth

Referee: Anthony Taylor

VAR: Peter Bankes

Conclusion

This match between AFC Bournemouth and Chelsea is shaping up to be an exciting contest. Chelsea will be looking to get back to winning ways after the international break, while Bournemouth will be hoping to cause an upset at home. With players like Renato Veiga stepping up for Chelsea and Bournemouth looking to take advantage of any opportunities, it promises to be an entertaining match.

Make sure to tune in and watch the action live! Whether you’re watching on TV or streaming online, this is a game you won’t want to miss.