Current Standings and Form:
- Liverpool: Managed by Arne Slot, Liverpool leads the Premier League with 46 points. Despite a recent 2-2 draw against Manchester United and a loss to Tottenham in the EFL Cup semi-final, they remain unbeaten in away league matches this season. Liverpool have scored 18 goals in their last 5 league matches but have conceded in 4 of those 5 matches.
- Nottingham Forest: Under Nuno EspÃrito Santo, Forest sits third with 40 points, level with Arsenal. They are on a remarkable run, having won their last six league games and achieving seven consecutive victories in all competitions. Notably, Forest is the only team to have defeated Liverpool in the league this season, securing a 1-0 win at Anfield in September. Forest have kept 4 clean sheets in a row and will be looking to stop Mo Salah and co on Tuesday night.
Key Players to Watch:
- Nottingham Forest: Striker Chris Wood has been instrumental, scoring 12 Premier League goals this season. Wingers Anthony Elanga and Callum Hudson-Odoi provide additional attacking threats as does the dangerous Morgan Gibbs-White who has 4 goals this season.Â
- Liverpool: Mohamed Salah continues to be a pivotal figure, boasting 18 goals and 13 assists in 19 games this season. With Darwin Nunez suspended due to accumulated yellow cards, Luis Diaz and Cody Gakpo are expected to play significant roles in the attack. Trent Alexander Arnold had a difficult match against Manchester United but will look to push forward and create opportunities for the front three.Â
Team News:
- Nottingham Forest: Long-term absentees Danilo and Ibrahim Sangare remain sidelined due to injuries. The rest of the squad is fit and available.Â
- Liverpool: Darwin Nunez is suspended for this match. Joe Gomez is out with a hamstring injury. Dominik Szoboszlai, who was substituted early in the previous match as a tactical decision, is expected to start.Â
Tactical Overview:
Nottingham Forest has adopted a pragmatic approach, focusing on defensive solidity and efficient counter-attacks. They have the lowest average possession rate in the league at 39.9%, yet their disciplined defence has been key to their success.
Liverpool, known for their high-pressing and possession-based play, will aim to break down Forest’s resilient defense. The absence of Nunez may lead to tactical adjustments in their attacking setup.
Historical Context:
This fixture rekindles a historic rivalry from the late 1970s when Nottingham Forest, under Brian Clough, challenged Liverpool’s dominance, culminating in league titles and European successes. The current encounter evokes memories of that competitive era.
Prediction:
Given both teams’ strong records and recent form, a closely contested match is anticipated. While Liverpool seeks to avenge their earlier defeat, Nottingham Forest’s confidence and home advantage could result in a competitive match. Mo Salah continues to be the dangerman in the Premier League and backing him to have 2+ Shots on Target looks a bet at 1/1.