Match Preview: AFC Bournemouth vs Wolverhampton Wanderers

Date: Saturday, August 23, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM ET (15:00 UK)
Venue: Vitality Stadium, Bournemouth
Broadcast Information: Sky Sports (UK), Peacock (US)

AFC Bournemouth host Wolverhampton Wanderers in a compelling Matchweek 2 encounter at the Vitality Stadium, with both teams looking to build on contrasting starts to the 2025-26 Premier League season. Bournemouth, under Andoni Iraola, are riding high after a 2-1 upset victory over Newcastle United, showcasing their attacking flair and defensive resilience. Wolves, managed by Gary O’Neil, are reeling from a 4-0 thrashing by Manchester City, raising questions about their defensive structure and ability to compete against mid-table rivals. This match pits Bournemouth’s high-pressing, fluid style against Wolves’ counter-attacking approach, with key battles in midfield and on the flanks likely to dictate the outcome. The vibrant Vitality Stadium crowd will amplify the stakes, as Bournemouth aim to solidify their top-half ambitions and Wolves seek to avoid an early-season slide. Expect an intense, open game with both sides eager to make a statement.

Insights

• Bournemouth’s opening 2-1 win over Newcastle highlighted their attacking intent, with Antoine Semenyo and Dominic Solanke combining for six shots on target. They were unbeaten in their last three home games of 2024-25.
• Wolves’ 4-0 loss to Manchester City exposed defensive frailties, conceding three goals in the second half. They won only one of their last six away matches in 2024-25.
• Bournemouth’s 4-3-3 setup relies on quick transitions and wing play, with Semenyo and Dango Ouattara stretching defenses. Wolves’ 3-5-2 aims to congest midfield, with João Gomes and Mario Lemina tasked with breaking up play.
• Semenyo vs. Wolves’ left-back Rayan Aït-Nouri will be a key matchup, as Semenyo’s pace could exploit Aït-Nouri’s tendency to push forward. In midfield, Bournemouth’s Philip Billing faces a physical battle with Gomes.
• Bournemouth have won three of their last five home games against Wolves, including a 1-0 victory in 2024-25. Wolves’ last win at the Vitality was a 2-1 result in 2023-24.
• A win could propel Bournemouth into the top six early, boosting their European aspirations. Wolves need points to avoid being dragged into a relegation scrap after a tough opening.
• Bournemouth’s Ryan Christie is doubtful with a hamstring issue, while Wolves are missing Pedro Neto, whose absence limits their attacking threat.
• The Vitality Stadium’s intimate atmosphere will see Bournemouth fans in full voice, while Wolves’ traveling supporters will push for a response after their opening loss.

Match Forecasts

• Dominic Solanke, Bournemouth’s top scorer in 2024-25 with 14 goals, is likely to test Wolves’ shaky center-backs with his movement and aerial ability.
• Wolves’ counter-attacks, led by Matheus Cunha, could exploit Bournemouth’s high defensive line, especially if they win turnovers in midfield.
• Bournemouth’s set-piece prowess, with six goals from corners in 2024-25, could target Wolves’ weakness in defending dead balls.
• Substitutes like Bournemouth’s Justin Kluivert or Wolves’ Pablo Sarabia could shift the game late, with both teams boasting impactful bench options.
• Wolves’ three-man defense may struggle against Bournemouth’s wide play, particularly if Ouattara finds space behind their wing-backs.
• Expect a high-tempo game early, with Bournemouth pressing aggressively. Wolves may slow the pace to frustrate the hosts and strike on the break.
• If the game is level late, Bournemouth’s home crowd could inspire a decisive push, while Wolves’ defensive lapses could prove costly in stoppage time.

Match Facts

• Bournemouth have won five of 12 Premier League matches against Wolves, with four draws and three losses. Their last meeting ended 1-0 to Bournemouth.
• The Vitality Stadium, capacity 11,379, saw Bournemouth win 10 of 19 home games in 2024-25, making it a tough venue for visitors.
• Referee Anthony Taylor, assigned to this match, averaged 4.2 yellow cards per game in 2024-25 and officiated Bournemouth’s 2-0 win over Brentford last season.
• Sky Sports will broadcast live in the UK, with coverage starting at 14:30 UK. Peacock streams the match in the US at 10:00 AM ET.
• Bournemouth’s weather forecast predicts sunny conditions, 20°C (68°F), with a 5% chance of rain, ideal for an open, attacking game.
• A Bournemouth win would mark their 100th Premier League victory. Wolves are chasing their 200th top-flight win since their 2018 promotion.
• Solanke is one goal away from 50 Premier League goals, a milestone he could hit in this match.