Nottingham vs Liverpool Prediction: 14/1/2025

Currently enjoying an unexpected run of success, Nottingham Forest holds an impressive 3rd place in the Premier League, sitting five points clear of 5th place. Chris Wood and his teammates are aiming to sustain this form to secure European qualification or even a Champions League spot. In excellent form, Forest has won their last six league games, defeating Manchester United (3-2), Aston Villa (2-1), Brentford (2-0), Tottenham (1-0), Everton (2-0), and Wolverhampton (3-0). Last weekend, they faced Luton Town in an FA Cup clash.

Liverpool, meanwhile, is solidifying their status as Europe’s top team and is heavily favored to win the Premier League title this season. The Merseyside club leads the league with a game in hand and holds a six-point cushion over their nearest rival. Their only league loss came in mid-September against Nottingham Forest (1-0). After convincing wins against Tottenham (6-3), Leicester (3-1), and West Ham (5-0), Liverpool was held to a 2-2 draw by Manchester United before losing the first leg of their League Cup semi-final at Tottenham (1-0). They also faced Accrington in the FA Cup last weekend. In the Champions League, Liverpool had a flawless group stage, winning all six matches.

Nottingham Forest remains without key midfielders Danilo and Sangaré, who are still recovering from injuries. Key contributors Gibbs-White (4 goals, 3 assists) and Chris Wood (12 goals) are expected to start. The attacking lineup is likely to include wingers Anthony Elanga (3 goals, 4 assists) and Callum Hudson-Odoi (2 goals, 2 assists). Former Strasbourg goalkeeper Sels will be in goal.

Liverpool faces some absences as well, with defenders Joe Gomez and Jarell Quansah unavailable and midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai listed as doubtful. Despite uncertainty surrounding his future, Mohamed Salah continues to deliver stellar performances, contributing 18 goals and 13 assists in the league. Salah is expected to lead Liverpool’s potent attack.

Prediction

Nottingham Forest has seen 19 of their last 20 home league games produce three or fewer goals, showing consistency in their defensive approach. Similarly, Liverpool’s last 18 away matches in the Premier League have also featured under 3.5 goals. This trend suggests a closely contested game with limited scoring.

Prediction: Nottingham Forest 1-1 Liverpool