Nottingham Forest vs Brentford Preview

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Kick-off: Sunday, 17 August 2025 — 2 p.m. BST
Venue: The City Ground, Nottingham

Match Overview

Nottingham Forest begin their Premier League campaign with added ambition after a remarkable 2024/25 season, finishing seventh and securing European football for the first time in decades.

Brentford arrive at the City Ground amid significant changes, including a managerial shift, key departures, and a summer of uncertainty.

Team News & Predicted Lineups

Nottingham Forest

Unavailable: Nicolas Dominguez (knee)

Predicted XI (4-2-3-1):
Sels; Cunha, Milenkovic, Murillo, Williams; Yates, Anderson; Ndoye, Gibbs-White, Hudson-Odoi; Wood

Brentford

Out: Vitaly Janelt (ankle), Gustavo Nunes (thigh), Yoane Wissa (future uncertainty), Paris Maghoma
Doubtful: Kevin Schade, Caoimhin Kelleher

Predicted XI:
Kelleher; Kayode, Collins, Van den Berg, Henry; Jensen, Henderson; Carvalho, Damsgaard, Lewis-Potter; Thiago

Tactical Outlook & Historical Context

Forest’s Strength at Home: Nottingham Forest conceded just 16 goals in 19 home league games last season, highlighting their defensive solidity.

Brentford’s Record at the City Ground: Brentford remain unbeaten in their last four visits (two wins, two draws), giving them confidence despite summer changes.

Season Openers: Forest haven’t won their opening Premier League game in seven seasons, whereas Brentford have never lost on opening day.

Predictions & Betting Insights

  • Sports Mole Prediction: 1-1 draw, considering Forest may take time to gel post-preseason and Brentford retain enough quality for a point.

  • TalkSport Betting Tips: Forest win, clean sheet, and a goal from Chris Wood are favored outcomes.

Odds Overview:

  • Nottingham Forest to win: ~23/20

  • Brentford: ~14/5

  • Draw: ~12/5

Final Thoughts

This opening clash promises intrigue: a Forest side eager to build on a fairy-tale season and embrace European competition, against a restructured Brentford under new leadership.

Forest’s home advantage and squad continuity are key strengths, yet Brentford remain a tricky opponent, especially early in the season. Expect a tense, strategic match with both sides fighting to assert dominance. A close scoreline seems likely.

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