Brentford edged Bournemouth in a tightly contested 2-1 battle, with clinical finishing making the difference. Despite Bournemouth generating a higher xG (2.11 vs. 1.46) and attempting 16 shots, they were left frustrated by wasteful finishing and Brentford’s resilience.
Brentford’s Efficiency Seals the Win
Bournemouth dominated possession (62%) and racked up 16 shots, but they could only convert once, struggling to break through Brentford’s compact defense.
Brentford, on the other hand, made the most of their chances, scoring twice from 11 shots. Yoane Wissa (30′) opened the scoring for the visitors, before Bournemouth finally responded through C. Nørgaard (70′). Just when it seemed the Cherries might turn things around, Vitaly Janelt (81′) buried a late winner for Brentford, silencing the home crowd.
Match Momentum: Bournemouth Push, Brentford Hold Firm
The momentum graph tells a tale of Bournemouth’s relentless attacking intent, particularly in the second half. The home side enjoyed long spells of control but failed to convert key opportunities, with Brentford staying compact and waiting for their moments to strike.
Brentford’s goals came in crucial phases where Bournemouth’s defense was stretched. Their ability to absorb pressure and counter effectively ultimately sealed the win.
Shot Analysis: Brentford Precise, Bournemouth Wasteful
Bournemouth created more high xG chances but couldn’t finish them off. They fired 16 shots, with 5 on target, but their xG of 2.11 suggests they should have scored more than once. Their shot map highlights missed opportunities inside the box, where they lacked the cutting edge to beat Brentford’s goalkeeper.
Brentford, meanwhile, converted their best chances efficiently. With an xG of 1.46, they didn’t generate as many opportunities but capitalized when it mattered. Their shot map shows a focus on quality over quantity, with two key finishes inside the box.
Possession Tactics: Bournemouth Build, Brentford Counter
Bournemouth’s pass map showcases their structured possession, moving the ball through Ryan Christie and Tyler Adams in midfield, looking to release Justin Kluivert and Marcus Tavernier in wide areas. However, Brentford’s deep block limited their effectiveness, forcing shots from difficult angles.
Brentford’s pass map highlights their direct approach, with Mikkel Damsgaard and Bryan Mbeumo linking up efficiently in transition. The Bees focused on quick vertical movements, bypassing Bournemouth’s midfield and maximizing their limited attacking moments.
Brentford Show Their Killer Instinct
Bournemouth played well, but their lack of clinical finishing cost them dearly. Despite outshooting Brentford (16 to 11) and generating a higher xG, they couldn’t capitalize when it mattered.
Brentford, on the other hand, showed why efficiency matters. They absorbed pressure, took their chances, and walked away with all three points. A tough lesson for Bournemouth, but another disciplined away performance from Brentford.