West Ham vs Nottingham Forest Preview

• Draw or Forest win
• Both teams to score

West Ham may have endured one of their most underwhelming Premier League campaigns in recent memory, but a commanding 2-0 victory over Manchester United at Old Trafford last weekend brought a rare highlight. It was a result that lifted spirits among the Hammers faithful and hinted that Graham Potter’s side may finally be heading in the right direction. While the win has certainly come too late to salvage any hopes of European qualification, it does provide some optimism ahead of their final home match of the campaign against Champions League hopefuls Nottingham Forest.

This will be a special occasion as West Ham prepare to close the curtain on their home season, and history is certainly on their side. The Hammers have won five of their six Premier League home games against Nottingham Forest and will hope to maintain that dominance. Another three points here would also see West Ham end a winless four-game run at the London Stadium (three draws, one loss), which has seen them struggle to find their rhythm in front of their own fans.

Defensive Frailties Remain an Issue

However, turning the tide at home may be easier said than done. West Ham have managed to register just two home clean sheets in the league all season, highlighting persistent defensive vulnerabilities. Their backline has lacked cohesion, especially against teams that play with pace on the break—something Nottingham Forest are more than capable of exploiting.

Yet if there’s one thing that could offer some comfort, it’s West Ham’s tendency to end their home league campaigns on a positive note. The Hammers are unbeaten in their final home match of the season across the last seven Premier League campaigns (five wins, two draws), which includes victories over Manchester United and Everton in recent years. That trend should provide Potter and his squad with confidence that they can sign off in front of their supporters on a high.

Forest Reeling from a Tough Week

While West Ham come into this fixture buoyed by a rare away win, it’s been a particularly difficult week for visitors Nottingham Forest. A frustrating 1-1 draw at home to already-relegated Leicester last time out was a huge blow to their ambitions of securing a spot in next season’s UEFA Champions League. That disappointment was compounded by worrying scenes after the match when striker Taiwo Awoniyi was placed in an induced coma following a brutal collision with the post during the game.

Thankfully, reports since have confirmed that the forward is now stable and showing positive signs of recovery. The news will undoubtedly come as a huge relief to teammates and fans alike, and with that mental burden eased, Forest can now fully focus on reigniting their top-five challenge.

Strong Away Record Provides Hope

The Tricky Trees begin this penultimate round of Premier League action just a point outside of the top five, and they remain one of the most dangerous away sides in the division. Only champions Liverpool have secured more Premier League away wins than Forest’s impressive tally of nine this campaign. Their ability to travel well and cause problems on the counter has been a key component of their resurgence under Nuno Espírito Santo.

Nottingham Forest have also scored in each of their last eight away games, underlining their attacking consistency on the road. Given West Ham’s patchy home record and defensive issues, this could be the perfect setting for Forest to deliver a crucial three points in their Champions League push.

Players to Watch

For the hosts, Jarrod Bowen continues to be the standout man in attack. He’s on the cusp of making club history, aiming to become the first West Ham player to score in four consecutive home Premier League matches since Jesse Lingard in April 2021.

Bowen’s energy and eye for goal could be key to unlocking a Forest side that tends to sit deep and counter.

On the other side, Anthony Elanga has emerged as Forest’s creative spark this season. The Swedish winger is just one assist away from matching the club record for most Premier League assists in a single season.

His direct running, pace, and service from wide areas make him a constant threat, especially on transitions.

Key Stat

Only Southampton have scored in both halves of fewer Premier League matches than West Ham this season, showing how often the Hammers fade after strong starts.

Prediction: West Ham 1-2 Nottingham Forest

With Forest chasing Champions League qualification and boasting one of the best away records in the league, they may just edge this contest. West Ham are dangerous at home but too often fail to sustain pressure for 90 minutes. Expect a tight match with Forest’s intensity and counter-attacking ability proving decisive.

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West Ham v Nott’m Forest, 2024/25 | Premier League