Chelsea vs Nottingham Forest Preview
- Chelsea to win
- Palmer to score or assist
Chelsea’s Attacking Prowess Under Maresca
Enzo Maresca’s early tenure at Chelsea is beginning to show real promise as the Blues extended their winning streak to five games across all competitions, following a 4-2 victory over Genk in Thursday night’s European action.
Maresca’s decision to rotate the entire starting XI from their league win against Brighton highlights the squad’s depth and suggests Chelsea shouldn’t suffer from any European hangover.
Chelsea’s lethal form in front of goal has been the highlight of their season so far. The Blues have scored 4+ goals in three consecutive matches, and their tally of 15 league goals is the highest in the division coming into this round.
However, they face a different kind of challenge against Nottingham Forest, who finished the last round boasting the joint second-best defensive record in the league (GA: 5).
Forest’s Strong Defence and Need for Results
Forest’s backline has been resolute, but manager Nuno Espírito Santo would have hoped for better results, having seen his side win just one of their last five matches (D2, L2).
That sole victory came in their toughest test during that period—a 1-0 away win at Liverpool, a result that could instil confidence ahead of their trip to Stamford Bridge, especially given that they won there by the same scoreline last season.
A repeat of last season’s success at Stamford Bridge would be a rare piece of club history for Forest, as they haven’t won consecutive matches at Chelsea’s ground since 1908.
The timing seems ripe, with Nottingham Forest unbeaten in their last five Premier League away matches (W4, D1)—a run they last extended to six matches in May 1995.
Key Players to Watch
Cole Palmer (Chelsea)
Palmer has been in sparkling form since the start of the 2023/24 season, contributing to more goals than any other player (43 – G28, A15).
The young Englishman scored four goals before half-time in Chelsea’s last league match against Brighton, showing his ability to make an early impact.
Callum Hudson-Odoi (Nottingham Forest)
Hudson-Odoi could be a thorn in Chelsea’s side as he returns to his former club. The winger scored the winning goal in Forest’s memorable win against Liverpool last month and also found the net against Chelsea in a thrilling 3-2 defeat last May.
Chelsea’s Goal-Scoring Run vs Forest’s Defensive Resilience
- Chelsea’s attacking form: Scored 4+ goals in three consecutive matches and led the league in goals scored (15).
- Forest’s away form: Unbeaten in their last five away Premier League matches (W4, D1).
- Chelsea’s depth: Full squad rotation for midweek European match highlights depth and potential lack of fatigue.
Conclusion
Chelsea will be looking to continue their potent attacking form under Maresca and secure another home win. However, Forest’s strong defensive displays and recent away record indicate they won’t be pushovers at Stamford Bridge.
With both teams showing different strengths—Chelsea’s goal-scoring prowess and Forest’s defensive solidity—this match could provide a fascinating contrast in styles.
Prediction:Chelsea’s attack may prove too much for Forest to handle, and the Blues are expected to claim a victory, though Forest’s resilience might keep the scoreline tight.
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Chelsea v Nottm Forest, 2024/25 | Premier League