Nottingham Forest vs Sunderland: Predictions, Betting odds, Lineups, Preview

Explore Ladbrokes' detailed preview for Nottingham Forest vs Sunderland in the Premier League. Stats, odds, predictions, and lineups for the 17:30 BST match.

• Fixture: Nottingham Forest vs Sunderland

• Date: Saturday, 27 September 2025

• Kick-off: 17:30 BST

• Venue: The City Ground

Match Prediction: Nottingham Forest 1-1 Sunderland

Nottingham Forest have been struggling lately, with only one win in their last five games. They've drawn against tough teams like Burnley and Crystal Palace, but heavy losses to Arsenal and West Ham show their vulnerability. Forest might look to exploit their home advantage, focusing on counter-attacks led by Chris Wood, who's been their main threat up front.

Sunderland, on the other hand, have been more consistent, securing two wins and two draws in their recent outings. Their solid performance against Aston Villa and a convincing win over West Ham suggest they can hold their own. Expect them to play a controlled game, trying to break down Forest's defence with quick passing and movement.

Nottingham Forest's recent form has been patchy, with only one win in their last five games. Their draws against Burnley and Crystal Palace show they can compete, but the heavy defeats to Arsenal and West Ham highlight defensive issues. This inconsistency might make them cautious at home, focusing on not conceding early and looking for opportunities on the break.

• Draw: 1-1 vs Burnley (A)

• Loss: 0-3 vs Arsenal (A)

• Loss: 0-3 vs West Ham United (H)

• Draw: 1-1 vs Crystal Palace (A)

• Win: 3-1 vs Brentford (H)

Sunderland have shown more consistency, with two wins and two draws in their last five games. Their ability to hold Aston Villa and beat West Ham at home indicates a strong defensive setup and effective attacking play. They'll likely approach this game with confidence, aiming to control possession and create chances through their midfield.

• Draw: 1-1 vs Aston Villa (H)

• Draw: 0-0 vs Crystal Palace (A)

• Win: 2-1 vs Brentford (H)

• Loss: 0-2 vs Burnley (A)

• Win: 3-0 vs West Ham United (H)

Nottingham Forest and Sunderland have not met in the Premier League in recent decades, so the head-to-head record will have little effect on the outcome of this encounter.

However, both teams have demonstrated their ability to compete against strong opposition recently. This match is likely to be closely contested, with each side seeking to assert dominance and secure a crucial result.

• Ola Aina (Hamstring) - Out

• Nicolás Domínguez (Meniscus) - Doubt

• Murillo (Knock) - Doubt

• Reinildo Mandava (Suspended) - Out

• Romaine Mundle (Hamstring) - Out

• Leo Hjelde (Achilles) - Doubt

• Habib Diarra (Groin) - Out

• Dennis Cirkin (Wrist) - Out

• Luke O'nien (Shoulder) - Doubt

• Aji Alese (Shoulder) - Doubt

• Predicted lineup: Sels, Williams, Milenković, Morato, Zinchenko, Anderson, Liuz, Bakwa, Gibbs-White, Ndoye, Wood

With Zinchenko and Wood in the lineup, Nottingham Forest will aim to strike a balance between defensive solidity and quick counter-attacks. Their recent form suggests they'll need to be more clinical in front of goal to secure a win.

• Predicted lineup: Roefs, Hume, Mukiele, Alderete, Hjelde (if fit), Rigg, Xhaka, Sadiki, Taibi, Isidor, Le Fée

Sunderland's predicted lineup, featuring Xhaka and Isidor, suggests a focus on controlling the midfield and exploiting spaces with quick passes. Their recent results indicate they can maintain this strategy effectively against Forest.

• Dan Ndoye vs Trai Hume: A crucial duel on the flank, where Ndoye's pace could test Hume's defensive skills.

• Morgan Gibbs-White vs Noah Sadiki: This midfield battle will be key, with Gibbs-White's creativity facing off against Sadiki's control.

• Granit Xhaka (Sunderland): His ability to bolster the defence and drive forward with key passes could be a game-changer for Sunderland.

• Chris Wood (Nottingham Forest): As Forest's main striker, his performance will be vital in breaking down Sunderland's defence.

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