Nottingham Forest will face Liverpool in an intriguing Premier League clash at the City Ground on Sunday, February 22. Kick-off is set for 2 PM GMT, with fans able to catch the action live on Sky Sports Main Event.
Match Preview: Nottingham Forest vs Liverpool
This fixture marks the first home game for Nottingham Forest’s new head coach, Vitor Pereira, after his successful debut in the Europa League. He led the team to a commanding 3-0 victory over Fenerbahce on Thursday. However, the primary challenge ahead lies in the Premier League, where Forest is eager to avoid relegation.
Nottingham Forest’s recent history with Liverpool has been difficult, with the Merseyside club seeking to break a trend of failing to secure wins in their last three encounters since Arne Slot’s appointment. Furthermore, Liverpool has not won against Forest since their 3-0 loss at Anfield last November.
Betting Tips and Predictions
- Best bet: Liverpool to win to nil at odds of 12-5 with bet365 and Paddy Power.
- Player to watch: Dominik Szoboszlai, likely to score or assist, offered at 7-4 on Hills.
- Longshot: Liverpool to win 3-0 at 16-1 with bet365.
Historically, Forest struggles at home; they have not won any of their last five Premier League matches there. Pereira will need to bring out the best in his players to change that trend.
Key Statistics
- Nottingham Forest has not scored in 12 Premier League games this season.
- Both teams have scored in only two of the last seven meetings between these clubs.
- Dominik Szoboszlai has been involved in eight goals in his last 11 away appearances.
- Mohamed Salah is on the brink of a club-record 93rd Premier League assist.
Team News and Lineups
Nottingham Forest
Stefan Ortega will likely start in goal, with Matz Sels sidelined due to injury. Willy Boly, Chris Wood, John Victor, and Nicolo Savona will also miss out.
Predicted line-up (4-2-3-1):
- Ortega; Aina, Milenkovic, Murillo, Williams; Sangare, Anderson; Hutchinson, Gibbs-White, Hudson-Odoi; Lucca.
Liverpool
Arne Slot has confirmed that Joe Gomez is fit to return, but Jeremie Frimpong will not play due to a hamstring issue.
Predicted line-up (4-2-3-1):
- Alisson; Gomez, Konate, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Szoboszlai, Gravenberch; Salah, Wirtz, Gakpo; Ekitike.
Match Odds
The betting odds for Nottingham Forest vs Liverpool are as follows:
| Outcome | Odds |
|---|---|
| Nottingham Forest Win | 3-1 |
| Liverpool Win | 3-4 |
| Draw | 14-5 |
For football enthusiasts and bettors alike, this encounter promises to deliver drama and excitement as both teams look to secure vital points in their campaigns. Stay tuned for what is expected to be a thrilling match-up.
