Football Prediction | Nottingham Forest vs Sunderland | Premier League 2025/26 | September 27 – Will Forest End Drought, or Do Black Cats Hunt Again?

The City Ground hosts a competitive clash as Nottingham Forest welcome Sunderland in a vital Premier League encounter. Forest aim to strengthen their home form, while Sunderland look to pick up valuable points on the road. Both teams have attacking talent capable of deciding the match in an instant. Fans can expect an intense battle between two sides looking to assert themselves in mid-season.

Nottingham Forest vs Sunderland Form Guide

Nottingham Forest

Nottingham Forest have shown resilience in recent games, led by Chris Wood’s consistent goal-scoring presence. Gibbs-White continues to create chances, linking up with Ndoye and Bakwa in advanced areas. Defensively, Milenkovic and Morato provide strength at the back, supported by Sels in goal. Forest’s form at home will be key as they push to climb the table.

Sunderland

Sunderland have impressed with their energetic performances, despite missing key players due to injury. Isidor has been their main attacking outlet, supported by young star Rigg and the creativity of Le Fée. Xhaka anchors the midfield, ensuring balance between attack and defense. Defensively, Talbi and Alderete are tasked with holding firm against Forest’s forwards.

Watch Live:- Nottingham Forest vs Sunderland Football Match 

Nottingham Forest vs Sunderland Key Battles

Wood vs Isidor

Chris Wood remains Forest’s biggest threat in front of goal, using his physicality and positioning to great effect. His ability to hold up play and finish clinically could trouble Sunderland’s backline. Isidor, on the other hand, brings speed and sharp finishing to Sunderland’s attack. Whoever takes their chances more effectively could decide the outcome of this clash.

Ndoye vs Talbi

Ndoye has been crucial for Forest, contributing both goals and creative link-up play. His direct runs and work rate make him difficult to contain. Talbi, while primarily defensive, has contributed with key assists and set-piece presence. Their battle will be important in determining who wins the midfield duels and controls transitions.

Nottingham Forest vs Sunderland Tactical Outlook

Forest will look to control possession through midfield, using Gibbs-White and Ndoye to create openings. Wood will lead the line, supported by Bakwa and Anderson in wide roles. Defensively, Milenkovic and Morato will aim to keep Sunderland’s pacey attackers at bay. Sels in goal provides the foundation for Forest’s organized setup.

Sunderland will likely rely on their compact defensive shape and look to counter quickly. Isidor will spearhead the attack, supported by Rigg’s creativity and Le Fée’s vision. Xhaka adds grit and balance in midfield, shielding the defense. Sunderland’s ability to transition from defense to attack will be crucial at The City Ground.

Head-to-Head Encounters

Recent meetings between Nottingham Forest and Sunderland have been competitive and closely contested. Forest’s home advantage has often given them an edge in tight fixtures. Sunderland, however, have a history of grinding out results with disciplined performances. This matchup promises another evenly fought contest.

Injury News and Suspensions

Nottingham Forest

Forest face a few injury concerns heading into the game. Murillo is a doubt with a knock, while Dominguez is sidelined until early October. Ola Aina remains a long-term absentee with a hamstring injury. These absences may test Forest’s depth, especially in defense.

Sunderland

Sunderland will be without several key players. Reinildo is suspended, while Alese, Cirkin, Hjelde, and O’Nien are all sidelined with injuries. Diarra and Mundle face longer recoveries, limiting options in midfield and attack. Despite these setbacks, Sunderland have shown resilience with their young squad.

Nottingham Forest vs Sunderland Possible Playing Squad

Nottingham Forest

Sels (GK), Williams, Milenkovic, Morato, Zinchenko, Luiz, Ndoye, Gibbs-White, Bakwa, Anderson, Wood

Sunderland

Roefs (GK), Hume, Alderete, Mukiele, Talbi, Xhaka, Sadiki, Rigg, Le Fée, Isidor, Reinildo

Match Details at a Glance

Match Prediction

Nottingham Forest will look to capitalize on home advantage, while Sunderland’s injuries may limit their options. Forest’s attacking depth gives them a narrow edge.

Score Prediction

Nottingham Forest 2–1 Sunderland – Wood and Ndoye to score for Forest, with Isidor finding the net for Sunderland. Expect a close, hard-fought game with Forest edging it late on.

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