Nottingham Forest will be hoping to maintain their European qualification hopes following a draw against Arsenal in their last English Premier League outing. Meanwhile, Manchester City are eyeing all three points to overtake Forest in the EPL top four. Ahead of the clash on Saturday, March 8, Kick Off Nigeria editor Ayomide Oguntimehin provides tips and details for the matchup.
Match Preview: Nottingham Forest vs Manchester City
Nottingham Forest gave their fans something to cheer about against Ipswich Town following a dismal run of form in their last three outings. The Tricky Trees’ two trips on the road did not end well in their quest for European football, as they lost 4-3 to Newcastle at St. James’ Park and 2-1 to Fulham at Craven Cottage. As they host the Citizens this weekend, they hope to build on their FA Cup momentum, with the added advantage of playing at home.
Guardiola’s troops have had mixed results in their last five games, with two losses—against Real Madrid and Liverpool—but their last two matches, both victories, have revived hope for the Sky Blue faithful. They aim to build on their wins over Plymouth and Tottenham when they travel to face Forest this weekend.
Head-to-Head (Last Five Matches)
- 31.08.22 – Premier League – Manchester City 6-0 Nottingham
- 18.02.23 – Premier League – Nottingham 1-1 Manchester City
- 23.09.23 – Premier League – Manchester City 2-0 Nottingham
- 28.04.24 – Premier League – Nottingham 0-2 Manchester City
- 04.12.24 – Premier League – Manchester City 3-0 Nottingham
Manchester City have clearly dominated the head-to-head fixtures against Nottingham Forest in the Premier League. In the last five meetings, City have won four and drawn one, scoring 13 goals while conceding just one.
Recent Form: Nottingham Forest
Forest’s recent form has been a mixed bag, showing resilience at home while struggling on the road. In their last five matches across all competitions, Forest secured two victories, one draw, and suffered two defeats.
A dramatic 3-2 win over Exeter in the FA Cup showcased their fighting spirit, followed by a narrow 2-1 loss to Fulham and a 4-3 defeat at Newcastle, where they pushed hard but fell short. However, they steadied themselves with a goalless draw against Arsenal before bouncing back with a 2-1 FA Cup victory over Ipswich.
At the City Ground, Forest have been far more formidable. They have gone unbeaten in their last five home games, including a dominant 7-0 thrashing of Brighton and a hard-fought 3-2 win over Southampton. They also held Liverpool to a 1-1 draw and displayed defensive solidity in their 0-0 draw with Arsenal. Their latest home match ended in another FA Cup triumph, reinforcing their reputation as a tough side to beat in front of their fans.
While their away struggles continue, Forest’s home form suggests they are capable of causing upsets against Guardiola’s men.
Recent Form: Manchester City
Manchester City’s recent form has been a mix of strong domestic performances and struggles in high-profile away fixtures. In their last five matches across all competitions, City secured three wins but suffered two defeats, both of which came in crucial encounters.
They comfortably defeated Plymouth 3-1 in the FA Cup and edged past Tottenham 1-0 in the league, but their title hopes took a hit with a 2-0 home loss to Liverpool. Additionally, their Champions League ambitions were dented by a 3-1 defeat at Real Madrid, though they had previously dominated Newcastle 4-0 at the Etihad.
However, their away form has been inconsistent. While they managed a 1-0 win over Spurs and a 2-1 FA Cup victory at Leyton Orient, they have struggled against top-level opposition on the road. Heavy defeats to Arsenal (5-1) and PSG (4-2) in the Champions League exposed their vulnerabilities. With just two wins in their last five away matches, City will need to rediscover their rhythm on the road if they are to maintain their dominance.
Player to Watch: Ola Aina
The Nigeria international has not found the back of the net for the Reds but has been crucial in their defensive setup while also playing a key role in their attacking transitions. He is one to watch as he looks to challenge City’s defense when they face off this weekend.
Related article: Ola Aina’s Future in England: Salary and Prospects with Nottingham Forest F.C.
Best Betting Tips
- Away to Win (Yes) – 1.94 on 1xBet
- Home to Win or Draw – 1.94 on 1xBet
