Semenyo vs Mitoma: Key Battle to Decide Bournemouth-Brighton Draw?

Bournemouth are looking to build on a solid start to the Premier League season, while Brighton & Hove Albion aim to regain consistency after a mixed run of results. The Vitality Stadium on Saturday, 13 September 2025, at 15:00 BST will host this intriguing encounter, with both teams expected to fight hard for points.

Recent Form
Bournemouth come into this match on the back of two consecutive wins, including victories over Tottenham and Wolves. Their solid defensive performances, especially at home, make them a tough side to break down. Despite a heavy loss to Liverpool, the Cherries have shown resilience and the ability to bounce back quickly.

Brighton, meanwhile, have had a rollercoaster start to the season. Their statement win against Manchester City was followed by a loss to Everton and a draw with Fulham. The Seagulls will need to find consistency and sharpen their attack if they are to challenge Bournemouth’s defence.

Head-to-Head History
Recent meetings favor Brighton, who have won four of the last five Premier League encounters against Bournemouth. However, Bournemouth claimed a convincing 3-0 home win in 2024, showing they can cause an upset when firing on all cylinders.

Team News & Injury Report
Bournemouth will be without Enes Ünal due to a cruciate ligament injury, while Adam Smith and Lewis Cook remain doubts. Brighton face fitness issues with Solly March and Adam Webster out, and Matts Weiffer doubtful. Key players like Antoine Semenyo for Bournemouth and Kaoru Mitoma for Brighton will need to make a decisive impact.

Lineups & Tactical Setup

• Bournemouth (4-2-3-1): Petrovic – Truffert, Senesi, Araujo, Diakité – Brooks, Scott – Adams, Tavernier, Semenyo – Evanilson
  Bournemouth will rely on a solid backline and the creativity of Scott and Tavernier to control the midfield, while Semenyo and Evanilson provide pace and attacking threat.
  
• Brighton (4-2-3-1): Verbruggen – Dunk, Veltman, van Hecke, De Cuyper – Minteh, Hinshelwood – Baleba, Mitoma, Gómez – Welbeck
  Brighton will look to exploit gaps through Mitoma and Welbeck, with Dunk and van Hecke anchoring the defence. Control in midfield will be key for them to unlock Bournemouth’s sturdy backline.
  

Key Battles & Players to Watch

• Antoine Semenyo vs Brighton Defence: Semenyo’s energy and direct runs will test Brighton’s defensive organisation.
  
• Kaoru Mitoma vs Julián Araujo: Mitoma’s dribbling and pace could cause problems for Bournemouth’s full-back.
  
• Evanilson vs Lewis Dunk: Evanilson’s movement and finishing will be crucial in challenging Brighton’s experienced centre-back.
  
• Danny Welbeck (Brighton): His positioning and experience could make the difference in tight moments.
  

Pre-Match Snapshot

• Fixture: AFC Bournemouth vs Brighton & Hove Albion
  
• Date & Time: Saturday, 13 September 2025, 15:00 BST
  
• Venue: Vitality Stadium
  
• League Positions: Bournemouth – 5th, Brighton – 7th (as of last round)
  

Prediction
Both teams are expected to cancel each other out in a tight encounter. Bournemouth’s home advantage and defensive solidity meet Brighton’s attacking flair, suggesting a closely contested match. A 1-1 draw looks the most likely outcome, with Semenyo and Mitoma tipped to be the main threats.