Liverpool continued their push for the Premier League title with a solid 2-0 win over Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium in Matchweek 24. While the scoreline might suggest a routine victory, the underlying stats reveal a game where Bournemouth had their moments but ultimately lacked the finishing edge to trouble Alisson and the Liverpool defense. Mohamed Salah, as ever, was the difference-maker, delivering a brace to secure all three points.
Despite a close contest in terms of possession (Liverpool 53% – Bournemouth 47%), the Reds were far more efficient in front of goal. Liverpool’s xG of 1.97 compared to Bournemouth’s 1.29 highlights the difference in quality in finishing. Bournemouth had 14 shots but failed to convert, while Liverpool took 16 shots and put seven on target, making their moments count.
Mohamed Salah opened the scoring in the 30th minute with a well-placed strike inside the box, while he sealed the win in the 74th minute with a simple finish following a well-worked team move.
Match Momentum: Liverpool in Control, Bournemouth Wasteful
The momentum graph shows a strong start for Liverpool, with Salah’s 30th-minute goal reflecting a key turning point. Bournemouth did find some rhythm after halftime, creating several half-chances, but their lack of a clinical finisher let them down. Liverpool, on the other hand, controlled the game through their midfield trio of Gravenberch, Mac Allister, and Szoboszlai, keeping possession and progressing the ball smoothly.
The game’s final stretch saw Liverpool closing ranks and shutting down Bournemouth’s attacks with well-structured defending, leading to a comfortable finish.
Shot Analysis: Bournemouth’s Struggles in Front of Goal
Bournemouth’s shot map tells the story of frustration. They took 14 shots but only 3 were on target, with an xG of 1.29 suggesting that they had chances but lacked the precision needed to capitalize. Many of their shots came from distance or wide areas, with Liverpool’s defense keeping them away from prime scoring positions.
Liverpool, by contrast, were far more clinical. They took 16 shots, hitting the target 7 times, and generating an xG of 1.97. Their two goals came from high xG chances, with Salah’s opener at 0.76 xG highlighting how effective the Reds were in creating and finishing quality opportunities.
Possession Tactics: Liverpool’s Structured Build-Up vs. Bournemouth’s Direct Play
Liverpool’s pass map shows their control in midfield, with Mac Allister, Szoboszlai, and Gravenberch orchestrating play. The ball frequently moved through Robertson and Alexander-Arnold, allowing Liverpool to build from the back before feeding Salah and Gakpo in the final third.
Bournemouth, on the other hand, relied on counter-attacks and wide play. Their pass map reveals a focus on getting the ball to Kluivert, Semenyo, and Ouattara, but they struggled to create clear-cut chances against Liverpool’s well-drilled backline.
Final Thoughts: A Professional Display from Slot’s Men
Liverpool didn’t need to be at their exhilarating best, but they did what good teams do—controlled the game, took their chances, and defended resolutely. Bournemouth had opportunities but lacked the cutting edge needed to trouble the visitors.
This result keeps Liverpool’s title charge on track, while Bournemouth will be left wondering what might have been had they been more clinical. The Cherries will need to sharpen their finishing if they are to turn performances like this into points.