West Ham v Bournemouth Preview & Key Facts 2026

Key Points

• West Ham United face AFC Bournemouth in the Premier League at London Stadium on Saturday, 21 February 2026, with a 5.30pm GMT kick-off.
• The Hammers aim to boost their survival bid, currently positioned near the relegation zone, targeting a draw level on 27 points with 17th-place Nottingham Forest.
• West Ham recently beat Burton Albion in the Emirates FA Cup, securing a last-16 spot for the first time since 2022/23 and marking five victories in seven games across all fronts, with only one defeat in that run.
• AFC Bournemouth, managed by Andoni Iraola, sit ninth in the Premier League and arrive with confidence after recovering from an eleven-game winless streak by going unbeaten in their last six league matches, winning four.
• The match promises a competitive encounter as both teams seek vital points in contrasting form scenarios.
• West Ham’s strong recent run contrasts with their top-flight struggles, while Bournemouth’s resurgence makes them a formidable opponent.
• A three-point haul for West Ham would align them with Nottingham Forest, who face reigning champions Liverpool on Sunday.
• Anticipation builds for this tea-time clash at the London Stadium in east London.

East London (East London Times) February 19, 2026 – West Ham United will look to strengthen their Premier League survival push when they host ninth-placed AFC Bournemouth at the London Stadium on Saturday, 21 February 2026, at 5.30pm GMT. The Hammers, riding a wave of form after a victory over Burton Albion in the Emirates FA Cup, aim for three crucial points that would level them on 27 points with 17th-placed Nottingham Forest. Bournemouth, under Andoni Iraola, counter with their own momentum, unbeaten in six league games following an eleven-game winless run, setting the stage for a pivotal clash in the relegation battle and mid-table stakes.

What Is West Ham United’s Recent Form Driving Their Survival Bid?

West Ham United have maintained a strong run of form, as highlighted in the official match preview. The Hammers secured a victory against Burton Albion in the Emirates FA Cup last time out, earning a place in the competition’s last 16 for the first time since the 2022/23 season. This result forms part of five victories in seven games across all competitions, during which they have suffered just one defeat. Attention now returns to the Premier League, where the east London side desperately need points to climb away from danger. A win against Bournemouth would see them draw level on 27 points with Nottingham Forest in 17th, who are scheduled to host reigning champions Liverpool on Sunday.

How Has Bournemouth Recovered Under Andoni Iraola?

Andoni Iraola’s ninth-place Bournemouth will arrive in east London full of confidence, according to the match preview from the West Ham official site. The Cherries have recovered impressively from an eleven-game winless run by going unbeaten in their last six league games, four of which yielded victories. This resurgence underscores their attacking threat and defensive solidity, making them a tough opponent for a West Ham team fighting relegation. Iraola’s side has transformed from struggle to consistency, positioning them as favourites for mid-table security.

Why Is This Match Crucial for West Ham’s Relegation Fight?

The stakes could not be higher for West Ham in their bid for survival. As noted in the official preview, another three-point haul against the Cherries would equalise their points tally with Nottingham Forest at 27. This fixture represents a golden opportunity to capitalise on home advantage at the London Stadium. West Ham’s recent FA Cup progress has injected momentum, but Premier League results remain paramount. Failure to secure points here could widen the gap to safety, especially with Forest facing a formidable Liverpool side.

What Makes This a Mouth-Watering Encounter?

A mouth-watering encounter awaits, with anticipation building as both teams bring contrasting narratives, per the West Ham match preview. West Ham’s resilience across fronts meets Bournemouth’s top-flight revival. The Hammers’ five wins in seven underline their fightback spirit, while Iraola’s men boast four victories in six unbeaten league outings. Played at the iconic London Stadium, this tea-time kick-off promises drama in front of a passionate east London crowd.

Who Are the Key Figures to Watch?

West Ham will rely on their in-form players to deliver, building on the Burton Albion win that marked their deepest FA Cup run since 2022/23. Bournemouth’s confidence stems from Iraola’s tactical acumen, guiding them from winless woes to unbeaten streak. Nottingham Forest loom large in the background, their Sunday clash with Liverpool adding pressure on West Ham to match their 27-point tally. Every player stepping onto the pitch carries the weight of their team’s season ambitions.

Where and When Does the Action Take Place?

The Premier League showdown unfolds at London Stadium, West Ham’s east London fortress, on Saturday, 21 February 2026, at 5.30pm GMT. This tea-time slot aligns with the growing excitement around the fixture. Fans can expect a full house as the Hammers seek to harness home support against a buoyant Bournemouth.

How Does West Ham’s FA Cup Run Factor In?

The Hammers’ FA Cup triumph over Burton Albion has been pivotal, securing last-16 progression absent since 2022/23. As detailed in the preview, this victory contributes to an impressive sequence: five wins in seven games, one loss. Such form across competitions bolsters confidence ahead of Premier League duties. It signals a team capable of grinding out results when it matters most.

What Is Bournemouth’s Unbeaten Streak Built On?

Bournemouth’s recovery under Iraola is remarkable, as per the official notes. From an eleven-game winless spell, they have notched six unbeaten league matches, including four triumphs. This turnaround reflects improved cohesion and ruthlessness. Arriving in east London, they pose a real danger to West Ham’s plans.

Could This Result Impact the Relegation Battle?

Drawing level with Forest on 27 points would reignite West Ham’s survival hopes. Forest’s tough assignment against Liverpool offers West Ham a window. Bournemouth, safely ninth, have less pressure but much pride. The outcome could reshape the lower Premier League table dramatically.

West Ham United’s preparations emphasise unity and execution against a confident foe. The London Stadium atmosphere will be electric, amplifying every tackle and chance. Bournemouth, meanwhile, aim to extend their fine run, testing the Hammers’ resolve.

In the broader context, this match encapsulates the Premier League’s unpredictability. West Ham’s multi-front success meets Bournemouth’s revival, promising edge-of-seat action. As reported in the official West Ham preview,

“West Ham United will be looking to boost our bid for survival when we return to Premier League action at home to AFC Bournemouth on Saturday tea-time.”

The Hammers’ strong run continues to fuel optimism, with the Burton Albion win a highlight.

The Cherries’ journey, as outlined, shows resilience:

“having recovered from an eleven-game winless win by going unbeaten in their last six league games, four of which have yielded victories.”

Iraola’s impact is undeniable.

Nottingham Forest’s position adds intrigue:

“another three-point haul against the Cherries would see us draw level on 27 points with 17th-place Nottingham Forest, who are set to host reigning champions Liverpool on Sunday.”

Every point counts in the scrap.

The preview captures the buzz:

“A mouth-watering encounter awaits then, and as anticipation continues to build you can find everything you need to know about the game by scrolling below.”

Neutral observers anticipate a thriller.

West Ham’s five-in-seven victories, one defeat, underscore momentum. The FA Cup milestone since 2022/23 adds lustre. Bournemouth’s ninth place belies their stutter, now overcome.