A crunch fixture at Turf Moor as newly promoted Burnley host Nottingham Forest. With both teams having rocky starts and lots to prove, this encounter could prove pivotal for momentum in the early part of the season.
Season Form & Context
Burnley have taken just 3 points from 4 league matches this season, sitting around 17th in the table. They’re yet to find consistency in defence and have already leaked several goals.
Nottingham Forest are slightly better off, with 4 points from 4 games. But their form has also been mixed — defensive frailties, lack of clean sheets, and some heavy defeats (notably against Arsenal) have left them under pressure.
Forest’s new signings (e.g. Arnaud Kalimuendo) are expected to help, but the time needed for cohesion and adaptation could be a factor.
Key Players to Watch
Chris Wood (Forest) — He’s been Forest’s main attacking outlet. His ability to find space, get on the end of crosses, and use his aerial and finishing skills will be crucial. If Wood is on form, Forest will be dangerous.
Matz Sels (Forest, GK) — Given how many goals Forest have conceded and struggle to keep clean sheets, Sels’ shot-stopping and composure could be the difference in tight moments.
Burnley’s defensive unit — Burnley have already conceded in most games and have only kept one clean sheet across competitions so far. Their backline must be more organised and disciplined, especially against Forest’s attacking threats.
Forest’s midfield creativity — Morgan Gibbs-White and H.Odoi who can link play, exploit spaces, and supply Wood will be vital. If Forest can control midfield, they might dominate possession and chances to get result.
Surprise players to watch
Nottingham forest – Dan Ndoye , Elliot Anderson
Burnley – H.Mejbri , Arnaud Kalimeundo
Tactical & Strategic Themes
Defensive lapses: Both sides have been guilty of conceding too easily — Burnley especially at home. Expect Forest to try pressing high or exploiting the flanks. Burnley will need to be compact and avoid being stretched.
Set pieces: Given both teams’ issues in open play, dead balls (corners, free kicks) might decide things.
Mental pressure: Forest are under pressure to start delivering wins under Ange Postecoglou, especially away. Burnley, being newly promoted, need stability but also want to establish home strength.
Burnley vs Nottingham Forest (Predicted Lineups)
| Burnley (4-2-3-1) | Nottingham Forest (4-2-3-1) |
|---|---|
| GK: M. Dúbravka | GK: M. Sels |
| RB: K. Walker | RB: N. Williams |
| CB: H. Ekdal | CB: F. Morato |
| CB: M. Estève | CB: N. Milenković |
| LB: Q. Hartman | LB: N. Savona |
| CM: J. Cullen | CM: E. Anderson |
| CM: J. Laurent | CM: I. Sangaré |
| RW: L. Tchaouna | RW: C. Hudson-Odoi |
| CAM: H. Mejbri | CAM: M. Gibbs-White |
| LW: J. Anthony | LW: D. Ndoye |
| ST: L. Foster | ST: C. Wood |
Prediction & Scoreline
Given the slightly superior quality in attack, Forest’s potential to exploit Burnley’s defensive weaknesses, and Burnley’s struggle for clean sheets, a visit from Forest seems likely to yield at least a narrow win.
Predicted Score: Burnley 1-2 Nottingham Forest
Forest scoring first is plausible, with Wood likely to feature.
Burnley might pull one back (set piece or scramble in the box), but getting a second equaliser looks unlikely given their defensive shambles lately.
Head-to-Head & Other Stats
Historically, Burnley hold a slight edge in home matches vs Forest at Turf Moor.
Forest have never won two league games in a row at Turf Moor (i.e. a back-to-back win there).
Clean sheets: Forest have not kept one in many Premier League games this season. Burnley too have trouble with goals conceded.
Where to Watch Burnley vs Nottingham Forest
India: Live on Star Sports Network and streaming on Disney+ Hotstar / JioCinema
UK: Broadcast on TNT Sports
USA: Live on NBC Sports / Peacock Premium
Canada: Available via fuboTV
Australia: Stream live on Optus Sport
Africa & MENA: Coverage on SuperSport and beIN Sports
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