Football Prediction | Burnley vs Nottingham Forest | Premier League 2025/26 | September 20 – Can Burnley Finally Rise, or Do Forest Add More Pain?

Burnley welcome Nottingham Forest to Turf Moor in a clash of two sides looking to establish early-season momentum. Burnley will rely on grit and organized defending to counter Forest’s attacking intent. Nottingham Forest bring pace and creativity in wide areas, aiming to exploit gaps on the break. Expect a competitive match with high intensity and tactical battles across the pitch.

Also read: Football Prediction | Burnley vs Liverpool | Premier League 2025/26 | September 14

Burnley vs Nottingham Forest Form Guide

Burnley

Burnley have shown resilience in the early fixtures, often relying on a compact defensive setup. Foster remains a key presence in goal, while Ekdal and Walker provide stability in midfield. Anthony and Cullen offer attacking options on the flanks, looking to create chances from transitions. The team’s organization and work rate will be crucial against a Forest side keen on quick attacks.

Nottingham Forest

Nottingham Forest have impressed with dynamic play and counterattacking ability. Wood leads the line with goal-scoring threats, supported by Hudson-Odoi’s pace and Gibbs-White’s creativity. Midfielders Sangaré and Anderson provide balance and defensive cover, allowing the front line to operate freely. Their adaptability and pressing game make them dangerous, particularly against teams that leave space in behind.

Burnley vs Nottingham Forest Key Battles:

Anthony vs Wood

Anthony has been Burnley’s standout forward, combining movement and finishing to trouble defenses. His ability to exploit space and create chances is central to Burnley’s attacking plans. Wood, meanwhile, is Forest’s main goal threat, using his experience and positioning to capitalize on opportunities. The duel between these two will likely influence the outcome, as each side looks to rely on their primary scorer.

Cullen vs Ndoye

Cullen provides width and creative service for Burnley, linking midfield and attack effectively. Ndoye is Forest’s versatile attacker, capable of both scoring and assisting in key moments. Their performances will dictate the tempo and flow of the game. Whoever gains more influence on the wings could tip the balance in the match.

Burnley vs Nottingham Forest Tactical Outlook

Burnley will employ a disciplined defensive structure, looking to frustrate Forest and hit on the counter. Midfielders like Ekdal and Hartman will shield the backline while supporting transitions. Anthony and Cullen will provide width to stretch Forest’s defense. The plan revolves around organization, set-piece threat, and exploiting counter opportunities.

Forest will look to control possession in midfield and exploit Burnley’s defensive gaps. Wood and Hudson-Odoi will stretch the pitch, creating space for Gibbs-White and Anderson to operate. Sangaré provides a defensive screen to prevent counters, allowing Forest to press higher. Their tactical approach balances creativity in attack with compactness in defense.

Watch Live: Burnley vs Nottingham Forest | Premier League 2025/26 | September 20

Head-to-Head Encounters

Burnley and Nottingham Forest have produced tight contests in previous meetings, often decided by small margins. Forest have edged several encounters with superior pace and attacking creativity. Burnley have occasionally dominated with defensive solidity and counterattacks. This matchup is expected to be another close and tactical battle.

Injury News and Suspensions

Burnley

Burnley face selection issues with Lesley Ugochukwu suspended. Connor Roberts and Jordan Beyer are sidelined with knee injuries. Zeki Amdouni remains out with a long-term cruciate ligament injury. Despite these absences, key players like Anthony and Cullen are expected to lead the attack.

Nottingham Forest

Forest’s squad has a few concerns, with Nicolás Dominguez sidelined with a meniscus injury. Ola Aina is out with a hamstring problem. These absences may slightly reduce midfield depth, but Wood and Hudson-Odoi remain fit to spearhead attacks. The team will need contributions from other attackers to offset these issues.

Burnley vs Nottingham Forest Possible Playing Squad

Burnley

Dubravka (GK), Ekdal, Laurent, Estève, Walker, Tchaouna, Hartman, Cullen, Anthony, Ugochukwu, Foster

Nottingham Forest

Sels (GK), Milenkovic, Murillo, Williams, Morato, Sangaré, Anderson, Ndoye, Hudson-Odoi, Wood, Gibbs-White

Match Details at a Glance

Match Prediction

Forest’s attacking depth and pace give them the edge, though Burnley’s defensive organization will create chances on the counter. Expect a tactical and competitive clash with moments of individual brilliance.

Score Prediction

Burnley 1–2 Nottingham Forest – Wood to score for Forest, with Anthony replying for Burnley. Forest’s counterattacking efficiency could decide the outcome late in the match.

Disclaimer: This Football prediction is based on the author’s insights and analysis. Readers should consider the points discussed and draw their own conclusions.