Bournemouth did the Premier League a big favour by holding Manchester City to a 1-1 draw that helped Arsenal lift the title, but for the Cherries themselves the result felt like a bitter pill. With just one game left they now trail Liverpool by three points and carry a worse goal difference, meaning they must go to Nottingham Forest and deliver a real hammering if they want any hope of sneaking into the Champions League places. Even if that dream slips away, the lads from the south coast can still celebrate their first ever European campaign next season, and they head into the final fixture on an incredible eighteen-game unbeaten run across all competitions.
Team Form
- Bournemouth have not tasted defeat since losing 3-2 to Arsenal back in January, a run that shows real steel in the squad.
- Nottingham Forest changed four managers during a rocky campaign yet still managed to stay in the top flight, a result that brings relief despite late collapses against Manchester United and Aston Villa.
- The Cherries boast the best defensive record in their recent away fixtures and look hungry to finish the season on a high note before the summer break.
Tactical Analysis
Under their current setup Bournemouth like to press high and hit teams quickly on the counter, using the pace of their wide forwards to stretch tired defences. Nottingham Forest, already safe from relegation, have shown signs of switching off in recent weeks and may struggle to match that intensity on the final day. Expect the visitors to dominate possession and create plenty of chances, especially if they can exploit set-pieces where their centre-backs have been clinical all spring.
Fans in the stands will be hoping for goals and clean attacking play rather than a cagey affair, with both sets of players keen to impress before they jet off on holiday. The atmosphere at the City Ground should be lively, yet the smart money is on Bournemouth carrying their momentum into one last statement performance.
Betting Proposal
Bournemouth to win or draw with a zero handicap at 1.57 looks the smartest play, given their long unbeaten streak and Forest’s recent habit of shipping goals when the pressure is off.
