Wilson's Goal Seals West Ham Win at Vitality

Bournemouth vs West Ham: Wilson's Strike Decides Tense Encounter

The Premier League's mid-table battle saw West Ham United secure a crucial 1-0 victory at Vitality Stadium, thanks to a first-half strike from striker Callum Wilson against his former club. The win provides Nuno Espírito Santo's side with significant momentum as they climb away from the relegation zone.

Team News and Tactical Setups

Bournemouth made four changes to the side that suffered a 4-0 defeat at Aston Villa. Key absentees included Antoine Semenyo (ankle) and Justin Kluivert (international break injury), with Lewis Cook, David Brooks, Bafode Diakite, and Eli Junior Kroupi returning to the starting XI. Manager Andoni Iraola opted for a 4-2-3-1 formation, hoping to reclaim home advantage after consecutive defeats.

West Ham also made two adjustments, with Lucas Paqueta suspended and Crysencio Summerville absent. Igor Julio and Luis Guilherme earned starts in a reshuffled backline. Nuno maintained his preferred 3-4-2-1 system, emphasizing defensive solidity after back-to-back wins over Newcastle and Burnley.

Match Highlights: Wilson's Decisive Impact

The game's defining moment came in the 11th minute when Wilson, a Bournemouth legend, turned home a cross from the right flank. His powerful strike left goalkeeper Marko Petrovic rooted to the spot, silencing the home crowd. This goal underscored Wilson's recent form and his determination to force his way into England's 2026 World Cup plans.

Bournemouth responded positively, with David Brooks forcing Alphonse Areola into a fine save just before halftime. The Cherries dominated possession in the second half, creating several half-chances through Tavernier and Kroupi, but lacked the cutting edge in the final third. West Ham's disciplined defensive organization, anchored by Kurt Zouma's leadership, frustrated the home side's attacking ambitions.

Post-Match Analysis

West Ham's victory lifts them to 14th place, just three points clear of the relegation zone. Nuno Espírito Santo praised his team's resilience: "We controlled the game when needed and showed character. This is a big win for our confidence."

For Bournemouth, the defeat leaves them in ninth place, with Iraola acknowledging missed opportunities: "We created enough to score but lacked clinical edge. The international break disrupted our rhythm, but we must respond quickly."

What's Next for Both Teams?

West Ham travels to face Burnley in their next Premier League encounter, aiming to build on this momentum. Bournemouth hosts Fulham at Vitality Stadium, where they'll look to end their winless streak and climb back into European contention.

The result highlights contrasting trajectories: West Ham's resurgence under Nuno versus Bournemouth's mid-season slump. Both managers now face crucial periods in their respective campaigns.