High-Stakes Clash at Dean Court as Bournemouth and Wolves Battle for FA Cup Progress
Bournemouth and Wolverhampton Wanderers are set to renew their rivalry as they meet in the FA Cup fifth round at Dean Court. The two sides faced off just a week ago in the Premier League, with Wolves securing a narrow victory. Now, they turn their focus to cup action, with a quarter-final spot at stake.
Match Preview
The quick turnaround between fixtures means both teams will have a fresh perspective on their opponents. Last weekend, Wolves edged Bournemouth 1-0, capitalizing on a controversial red card for Illya Zabarnyi before Matheus Cunha found the back of the net. With cup competition often bringing unexpected drama, will Bournemouth respond with a statement win, or will Wolves complete a double at Dean Court?
Wolves, four-time FA Cup winners, are chasing consecutive quarter-final appearances for the first time since 1995. Their journey to this stage has been impressive, securing away victories against Bristol City and Blackburn Rovers, with João Gomes playing a pivotal role in both wins.
Meanwhile, Bournemouth have never advanced beyond the FA Cup quarter-finals, with their best-ever run coming in 2021. With the Cherries enjoying a strong Premier League campaign under Andoni Iraola, this represents a golden opportunity to make history. They powered past West Brom with a dominant 5-1 victory in the third round before eliminating Everton at Goodison Park.
Team Form & Key Storylines
For Wolves, last week’s league win at Dean Court provided a much-needed boost in their relegation battle. However, their midweek 2-1 loss to Fulham at Molineux means they still have work to do in securing their Premier League survival. Sitting 17th in the table, five points above the drop zone, Wolves will hope that momentum from their cup run can carry over into league form.
Bournemouth, on the other hand, have been enjoying an impressive season, with European football still a realistic ambition. After going 11 games unbeaten, they have hit a rough patch, losing three of their last four, including a 2-1 defeat to Brighton. Nevertheless, they remain in seventh place, firmly in the conversation for a continental berth. Can they get back on track by knocking Wolves out of the FA Cup?
Head-to-Head Record
- Matches Played: 21
- Bournemouth Wins: 9
- Draws: 4
- Wolves Wins: 8
Bournemouth Team News & Predicted Lineup
Illya Zabarnyi will be unavailable due to suspension, while Marcos Senesi, Adam Smith, Julián Araujo, and Enes Ünal remain sidelined. There is positive news in the return of Evanilson, who made his first appearance since January after recovering from a foot injury. However, Ryan Christie’s groin strain will keep him out for a few weeks, opening the door for Alex Scott to start.
Predicted Bournemouth lineup (4-2-3-1): Arrizabalaga; Cook, Hill, Huijsen, Kerkez; Adams, Scott; Tavernier, Kluivert, Semenyo; Ouattara.
Player to Watch: Justin Kluivert – The Dutch winger has been in fine form, notching 13 goals this season, including a spectacular strike against Brighton. His pace and attacking prowess will be crucial for Bournemouth.
Wolves Team News & Predicted Lineup
Wolves continue to contend with several injuries, as Emmanuel Agbadou, Yerson Mosquera, Rodrigo Gomes, Gonçalo Guedes, Enso González, Hwang Hee-chan, and Saša Kalajdžić remain unavailable. Goalkeeper Sam Johnstone is expected to start as part of Wolves’ rotation policy in the cup, while recent signings Nasser Djiga and Marshall Munetsi could feature from the start.
Predicted Wolves lineup (3-4-3): José Sá; Doherty, Toti, Djiga; Semedo, André, João Gomes, Aït-Nouri; Bellegarde, Munetsi, Cunha.
Player to Watch: Matheus Cunha – With 14 goals this season, Cunha has been Wolves’ key attacking outlet. His goal in last week’s win at Dean Court makes him a major threat once again.
Prediction
While Wolves emerged victorious in their recent league meeting, the FA Cup presents a different challenge. Bournemouth will be determined to make amends and seize the opportunity to reach the last eight. Expect a competitive contest, but the Cherries could edge it this time.
Prediction: Bournemouth 2-0 Wolves
How to Watch Bournemouth vs Wolves – FA Cup Broadcast & Streaming
- UK: Not broadcast live
- USA: ESPN+
- Canada: Sportsnet Now Plus
Match Details:
- Date: Saturday, 1 March 2025
