Sheffield United vs Nottingham Forest Preview
- Forest to win?
- Both teams to score
As the Premier League season draws to a close, Sheffield United, having recently been relegated, face Nottingham Forest in a match filled with different stakes for the two teams.
For Sheffield, it’s about salvaging pride in their remaining fixtures, while Forest fight fervently to avoid the drop.
Sheffield United: A Season to Forget
Sheffield United’s return to the Premier League has been nothing short of disastrous. Their relegation was confirmed following a heavy 5-1 defeat to Newcastle United, capping off a dismal April where they secured just one point and conceded 20 goals.
With three games left, including two at home at Bramall Lane, Sheffield United will look to restore some pride.
However, their home form has been particularly troubling, conceding an average of 3.75 goals per game in their last eight league fixtures at home (D3, L5).
Nottingham Forest’s Survival Battle
On the other side, Nottingham Forest remain in a precarious position just above the relegation zone, one point clear of danger.
Despite a valiant effort, they were defeated 2-0 by Manchester City last weekend, extending their winless run to four games (D1, L3).
With crucial matches ahead, including a final day showdown against Burnley, Forest’s survival hopes hinge on securing points against teams below them, starting with Sheffield.
Head-to-Head Record
Historically, Forest have a slight edge in recent encounters against Sheffield United, having won the Championship play-off semi-final first leg at Sheffield in May 2022 and losing only one of the last five head-to-head matchups after 90 minutes (W2, D2).
However, Forest’s struggle for an away win in 2023 continues, having not won on the road in the league this year (D2, L5).
Key Players to Watch
Sheffield United’s Anel Ahmedhodžić, who briefly played for Forest in 2016, will be a player to watch. His goal against Newcastle was his third in the last five matches to open the scoring.
For Nottingham Forest, Morgan Gibbs-White, who spent the 2021/22 season on loan at Sheffield, has been in fine form with five goal contributions (G2, A3) in his last seven games. His performance could be pivotal in Forest’s quest for survival.
Match Prediction
Given the contrasting motivations and current form of both teams, this match could be tighter than expected. Sheffield will aim to improve their abysmal home record, while Forest desperately needs points to steer clear of relegation.
The pressure on Forest might see them pushing harder for a win, but Sheffield’s desire to end on a high note at home could see them put up a strong fight.
This fixture between Sheffield United and Nottingham Forest is set against the backdrop of Sheffield’s confirmed relegation and Forest’s battle against dropping to the Championship.
With significant consequences at stake, especially for Forest, fans can expect a compelling match filled with strategic play and key performances from players on both sides.
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Sheffield Utd v Nottm Forest, 2023/24 | Premier League