Both teams are proving highly productive in attack, but are struggling defensively. Newcastle, despite numerous player departures, have made a strong start to the new season, picking up four points in two matches, scoring four goals, and also beating Wet Bromwich Albion (3-2) in the League Cup. However, the Cherries have failed to keep a clean sheet in their last seven matches, and Newcastle is conceding an average of 1.71 goals per game.
Newcastle's attack is in excellent form – Anthony Elanga has scored in the first two matches, and Yohan Wissa has already notched a goal and an assist. Alex Scott is a key player for Bournemouth, while Ryan and Justin Kluivert provide a threat on the flanks. However, the hosts have some defensive losses (Tino Livramento and Dan Byrne), while the visitors have lost winger Junior Crupi. The teams' weaknesses, as well as their style of play (Bournemouth's counter-attacks and Newcastle's set pieces) mean that both teams will struggle to keep a clean sheet, which directly contributes to the overall over-goal total.
