The Daily Star Ireland
Nottingham Forest will be without key midfielders Danilo and Sangaré due to long-term injuries. Fortunately, there are no additional absences to report. Chris Wood, the New Zealand striker who has scored 9 goals in the Premier League, is in excellent form this season and is likely to be supported by playmaker Gibbs-White, who has one goal in the league.
For Aston Villa, midfielder Onana is doubtful, and winger Ramsey has not yet recovered from his injury. However, England internationals Rogers, with 4 goals and 2 assists, and Watkins, with 7 goals and 3 assists, form a strong attacking partnership. After both scored against Brentford, they are expected to start together again this weekend. French international Kamara and Belgian midfielder Tielemans are also available.
Looking at the Nottingham Forest vs. Aston Villa matchup, Aston Villa’s recent form indicates a team gaining momentum. Noteworthy victories like the 3-1 win over Brentford and a 1-0 win against Southampton demonstrate their ability to achieve important results. However, a 3-0 loss to Chelsea and a 0-0 draw with Juventus highlight areas needing improvement, particularly against stronger teams. These mixed results show a team capable of both impressive wins and notable vulnerabilities.
Nottingham Forest, on the other hand, will need a solid strategy to exploit Villa’s inconsistencies. Villa’s strong attacking performance, as seen in the Brentford game, presents a significant challenge. Nottingham will need to focus on tightening their defense and seizing counter-attack opportunities. This game is set to be an intriguing contest, with both teams eager to assert dominance and secure crucial points.
Considering recent form and performances, a narrow 1-0 victory for Nottingham Forest against Aston Villa on December 14, 2024, seems plausible. Nottingham’s disciplined defense and strategic counter-attacks could be decisive, especially if they manage to neutralize Villa’s attacking threats. With the advantage of playing at home and a focused approach, Nottingham might edge out a win in what promises to be a closely contested match.
Prediction
Nottingham Forest has shown realistic ambitions for the Premier League, with a strong recent record of six wins in seven home matches, boosting their bid for a top-table finish. Meanwhile, Aston Villa has struggled away from home, suffering nine defeats in their last twelve trips.
Prediction: Nottingham Forest 1-0 Aston Villa
