Nottingham Forest return to Premier League action on Saturday afternoon still searching for their first victory under Ange Postecoglou. The Australian coach, who arrived with high expectations, is already under intense scrutiny after going seven games without a win in all competitions.
A 2–0 defeat to Newcastle United before the international break left Forest in 17th place, just one point above the relegation zone. Scoring has been their main issue — they could now go three consecutive league matches without a goal for the first time since 1999.
Despite poor results, Forest have shown glimpses of promise at home, where their passionate supporters often inspire better performances. The potential return of Murillo and the pace of Callum Hudson-Odoi could be crucial if the hosts are to trouble Chelsea’s backline.
Chelsea improving despite absences
Chelsea head into the weekend buoyed by a 2–1 victory over Liverpool, where Moises Caicedo and teenage sensation Estevão sealed a morale-boosting win. That result ended a short winless streak and lifted the Blues to seventh place, just three points off the top four.
Under Enzo Maresca, Chelsea have shown progress, winning three of their last four matches across all competitions, but their away form remains a concern, with only three wins in their last 14 Premier League trips.
Injuries continue to plague Maresca’s side — Levi Colwill, Liam Delap, and Mykhaylo Mudryk are out, while doubts linger over Cole Palmer and Enzo Fernández. The coach himself will serve a touchline ban after his celebrations got out of hand against Liverpool.
Even so, Chelsea’s attacking quality, led by Pedro Neto and Caicedo’s energy in midfield, should give them the edge.
Prediction
Forest will make life difficult at home, but Chelsea’s superior firepower and momentum could see them through.
Prediction: Nottingham Forest 1–2 Chelsea
Tip: BTTS
