*Match preview and betting tips provided by SVB Tips
The clash between Nottingham Forest and Chelsea is arguably the most dramatic fixture of the final Premier League round. Both teams are still in contention for a Champions League spot, making this a must-win encounter for either side.
High Stakes, Tight Table
Five teams are battling for three Champions League spots:
- Manchester City – 68 pts
- Newcastle – 66 pts
- Chelsea – 66 pts
- Aston Villa – 66 pts
- Nottingham Forest – 65 pts
A draw could see both Forest and Chelsea miss out if results elsewhere go against them. Forest, even if victorious, will still depend on Newcastle or Aston Villa dropping points against Manchester United and Everton respectively.
Forest’s Form Has Slipped
This could be Forest’s greatest achievement in the 21st century—qualifying for the Champions League after narrowly avoiding relegation in the last two seasons. They’ve already secured a place in European competition but missed a major chance last week, drawing 2-2 with already-relegated Leicester.
Despite a historic 7-0 win over Brighton in February, Forest are winless in their last three home matches, including losses to Everton (0-1) and Brentford (0-2).
Key Injuries:
- Murillo is doubtful (injured vs West Ham).
- Taiwo Awoniyi is out for the season.
Chelsea Under Pressure
Chelsea’s Champions League hopes are hanging by a thread after their 0-2 loss at Newcastle. Poor away form has hurt them badly—only one win in their last 11 away games (2-1 at Fulham).
Despite dominating possession in most matches, Enzo Maresca’s side has struggled to convert that control into results. One such match was their 1-1 home draw vs Forest in October, where they had over 65% possession.
More than pride is at stake for Chelsea—missing the Champions League for a third consecutive season would be disastrous, especially after their massive investments.
Key Absence:
- Nicolas Jackson (suspended)
Head-to-Head & Key Stats
- Forest have only 1 win in their last 7 Premier League games vs Chelsea (3 draws, 3 losses)—that win came in September 2023 at Stamford Bridge (1-0).
- Chelsea won their last game at City Ground (3-2).
- Chris Wood (20 goals) is Forest’s main goal threat and will lead the line again.
Probable Lineups
Nottingham Forest: Sels; Aina, Milenkovic, Morato, Williams; Dominguez, Anderson; Elanga, Gibbs-White, Hudson-Odoi; Wood
Chelsea: Sanchez; James, Chalobah, Colwill, Cucurella; Fernandez, Caicedo; Madueke, Palmer, Neto; Nkunku
Betting Tips
- 1. Both Teams to Score – YES : Both have high motivation and leaky defenses lately, and BTTS has occurred in 5 of Forest’s last 7 home matches.
- 2. Over 2.5 Goals: Final-day chaos is likely, and Forest-Chelsea games have historically produced goals.
- 3. Chris Wood to Score Anytime: Forest’s top scorer, playing against a Chelsea defense missing leadership.
- 4. Chelsea Draw No Bet: Chelsea are shaky away from home, but Forest are also winless in 3 home games. Safer option.