Nottingham Forest vs Chelsea Prediction, Odds, Lineups & Betting Tips (18/10/2025) – EPL

Nottingham Forest host Chelsea at the City Ground on Saturday 18 October 2025 in the Premier League. The hosts desperately need points to ease the mounting pressure on under-fire manager Ange Postecoglou, whilst Chelsea look to build momentum following their dramatic late victory over Liverpool.

Our Prediction for Nottingham Forest vs Chelsea (18/10/2025)

Chelsea are strong favourites to claim all three points in this crucial Premier League encounter. The Nottingham Forest vs Chelsea preview highlights a stark contrast between two clubs heading in opposite directions.

Forest languish in 17th position with just five points from six matches under Ange Postecoglou, who remarkably remains winless in seven games since replacing Nuno Espírito Santo. The Australian has become the first permanent Forest manager in 100 years to fail to win any of his opening six matches, with fans already chanting for his dismissal.

Our Nottingham Forest vs Chelsea score prediction reflects Chelsea’s superior quality and recent momentum. The Blues bounced back from consecutive defeats with a dramatic 2-1 victory over Liverpool, courtesy of Estêvão’s 95th-minute winner. That result showcased their resilience and attacking threat.

The Nottingham Forest vs Chelsea betting tips favour an away victory combined with goals. Chelsea to win and both teams to score at 2.50 offers excellent value, given Forest’s defensive vulnerabilities they’ve conceded 13 goals in Postecoglou’s seven matches and Chelsea’s attacking prowess, having scored 11 goals in six league games.

Additionally, over 2.5 goals at 1.62-1.73 represents a solid bet. Forest have been involved in high-scoring matches under their new manager, whilst Chelsea’s attacking stars João Pedro, Cole Palmer and Estêvão provide consistent goal threats.

Recommended Bets:

• Chelsea to Win & Both Teams to Score
• Over 2.5 Goals
• Chelsea to Win

Nottingham Forest Form Analysis

Nottingham Forest find themselves in a precarious position, sitting 17th in the Nottingham Forest vs Chelsea standings with just five points from six matches. The appointment of Ange Postecoglou has backfired spectacularly, with the club in genuine relegation danger.

Postecoglou’s winless run now extends to seven matches across all competitions (0W-2D-5L), an alarming start that has seen him become the first permanent Forest boss in a century to fail to win any of his opening six league fixtures. Owner Evangelos Marinakis, notorious for his trigger finger with managers, reportedly came close to sacking the Australian during the October international break.

The problems are evident both defensively and in converting dominance into results. Forest have shipped 10 goals in six Premier League matches, keeping just one clean sheet this season—a 1-0 victory over Manchester United back in April under previous manager Nuno Espírito Santo.

Postecoglou has completely transformed Forest’s playing style, implementing his possession-based “Angeball” philosophy. Against Burnley, they registered 63.3% possession—their highest in any Premier League game since returning to the top flight in 2022. Elliot Anderson completed 98 passes in that match, a club record for the Premier League era.

However, this tactical shift has come at a cost. Forest’s defensive organisation has crumbled, and they’ve been unable to capitalise on their increased possession. They’ve thrown away leads repeatedly, missed crucial chances, and been vulnerable at set-pieces. The 3-2 defeat to Midtjylland in the Europa League prompted “sacked in the morning” chants from their own supporters.

Key players like Morgan Gibbs-White and Chris Wood have struggled for consistency under the new system. Injuries to Oleksandr Zinchenko, Douglas Luiz, and Ola Aina have further depleted Postecoglou’s options.

Last 5 Results:

• 05/10/25: Newcastle 2-0 Forest (Premier League)
• 03/10/25: Forest 2-3 Midtjylland (Europa League)
• 28/09/25: Forest 0-1 Sunderland (Premier League)
• 21/09/25: Burnley 1-1 Forest (Premier League)
• 14/09/25: Real Betis 1-1 Forest (Europa League)

Chelsea Form Analysis

Chelsea sit seventh with eight points from six matches (2W-2D-2L), enduring an inconsistent start to their 2025/26 campaign under Enzo Maresca. However, their recent 2-1 victory over Liverpool suggests they’re finding their rhythm at a crucial time.

Maresca’s second season in charge has featured peaks and troughs. After winning the Conference League and Club World Cup in his debut campaign whilst securing fourth place, expectations were high. The Blues started with two wins and two draws before hitting a rough patch with consecutive defeats to Manchester United and Brighton, plus a 3-1 loss to Bayern Munich in the Champions League.

The Liverpool victory proved pivotal. Trailing to a late equaliser, Estêvão’s 95th-minute winner sparked wild celebrations, with Maresca sprinting down the touchline to join his players earning himself a red card but potentially galvanising his squad. That moment could define their season.

Chelsea’s attacking threat remains formidable. They’ve scored 11 goals in six league matches, with João Pedro leading the line effectively after his summer arrival. The Brazilian has three goals already, whilst Enzo Fernández (2 goals), Moisés Caicedo (2) and Cole Palmer continue to contribute. Estêvão, despite limited starts, has made an immediate impact with crucial goals.

Defensively, concerns persist. Eight goals conceded in six matches isn’t disastrous, but they’ve been vulnerable to quick transitions and set-pieces. Maresca has faced criticism for his faith in goalkeeper Robert Sánchez, with some supporters preferring summer signing Filip Jørgensen.

The manager’s possession-based “Marescaball” style mirrors his mentor Pep Guardiola’s philosophy. Chelsea have dominated possession in most matches, creating numerous chances. Their issue has been converting that control into consistent results, particularly against top-10 opponents.

Away form requires improvement. This trip to the City Ground offers the perfect opportunity to build momentum against struggling opposition before tougher fixtures arrive.

Last 5 Results:

• 04/10/25: Chelsea 2-1 Liverpool (Premier League)
• 28/09/25: Lincoln 1-2 Chelsea (EFL Cup)
• 24/09/25: Brighton 2-1 Chelsea (Premier League)
• 21/09/25: Man United 1-0 Chelsea (Premier League)
• 17/09/25: Bayern Munich 3-1 Chelsea (Champions League)

Nottingham Forest vs Chelsea Betting Odds

Market
Forest to Win	3.60	3.60	3.60
Draw	3.70	3.70	3.75
Chelsea to Win	1.85	1.85	1.91
Over 2.5 Goals	1.62	1.62	1.73
Both Teams to Score	1.55	1.55	1.65

The Nottingham Forest vs Chelsea betting odds present Chelsea as clear favourites, with odds ranging from 1.85 to 1.91 for an away victory. This pricing reflects approximately 53% probability, which seems justified given the stark contrast in form and quality between the sides.

Forest’s home odds of 3.60 suggest just a 23% chance of victory a damning assessment of their current predicament under Postecoglou. The draw at 3.70-3.75 indicates bookmakers expect a decisive result rather than a stalemate.

The goals markets offer particular interest. Both teams to score at 1.55-1.65 represents strong value, considering Forest have conceded in every match under their new manager whilst Chelsea’s defence remains vulnerable. Over 2.5 goals at 1.62-1.73 also appeals, given the attacking intent both managers favour despite defensive frailties.

For punters seeking value, Chelsea to win and both teams to score combines the most likely outcome with Forest’s proven ability to find the net despite their struggles. Alternatively, backing Chelsea with a -1 handicap could offer enhanced returns given Forest’s poor defensive record.

Please note: All odds are subject to change. Always gamble responsibly and within your means. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, please seek help from BeGambleAware or call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133.

Where to Watch Nottingham Forest vs Chelsea

Catch Saturday’s crucial Premier League clash between two clubs with contrasting fortunes.

Location: City Ground, Nottingham

Date: Saturday, 18 October 2025

Kick-off: 12:30 BST

TV Channel: Available on Sky Sports Premier League and Sky Sports Main Event in the UK. International viewers should check local Premier League broadcast partners.

Probable Lineups for Nottingham Forest vs Chelsea

Team news and expected formations for Saturday’s encounter at the City Ground.

Nottingham Forest Lineup (4-3-3)

Starting XI: Sels; Williams, Milenkovic, Murillo, Morato; Anderson, Danilo, Gibbs-White; Elanga, Wood, Hudson-Odoi

Injured/Suspended: Zinchenko (injury – out), Douglas Luiz (injury – out), Aina (injury – out)

Coach: Ange Postecoglou

Postecoglou desperately needs a result to ease the mounting pressure on his position. He’ll likely persist with his possession-based approach despite it yielding no wins in seven matches. Chris Wood leads the line, supported by Morgan Gibbs-White’s creativity and Anthony Elanga’s pace. The midfield trio must provide better defensive cover whilst enabling Forest’s attacking transitions.

Chelsea Lineup (4-2-3-1)

Starting XI: Sánchez; Gusto, Fofana, Disasi, Cucurella; Caicedo, Fernández; Madueke, Palmer, Pedro Neto; João Pedro

Injured/Suspended: Badiashile (injury – doubtful), Maresca (suspended – touchline ban)

Coach: Enzo Maresca

Maresca will watch from the stands after his red card for wild celebrations against Liverpool. His assistant Willy Caballero takes touchline duties. Chelsea’s attacking quartet of Palmer, Pedro Neto, Madueke and João Pedro provides multiple goal threats. The midfield partnership of Caicedo and Fernández offers both defensive solidity and progressive passing. Estêvão may feature from the bench after his heroics last time out.

The Last Encounters Between Nottingham Forest and Chelsea (Nottingham Forest vs Chelsea H2H)

Date	Venue	Competition	Result	Goal Scorers
25/05/2025	City Ground (Nottingham)	Premier League	Forest 0–1 Chelsea	Palmer
06/10/2024	Stamford Bridge (London)	Premier League	Chelsea 1–1 Forest	Jackson (CHE), Wood (FOR)
11/05/2024	City Ground (Nottingham)	Premier League	Forest 2–3 Chelsea	Gibbs-White, Elanga (FOR), Mudryk, Sterling, Jackson (CHE)
02/09/2023	Stamford Bridge (London)	Premier League	Chelsea 0–1 Forest	Awoniyi
13/05/2023	Stamford Bridge (London)	Premier League	Chelsea 2–2 Forest	Sterling, Mudryk (CHE), Dennis, Awoniyi (FOR)

Head-to-Head Summary:

Overall, Chelsea have dominated this fixture historically, winning 42 of 100 meetings compared to Forest’s 27 victories, with 31 draws. However, recent encounters paint a more competitive picture.

In their last five meetings, Chelsea have won just once, with Forest claiming one victory and three matches ending in draws. This recent balance suggests Forest can compete when at full strength, though their current crisis under Postecoglou changes that dynamic considerably.

Chelsea have won their last two visits to the City Ground, including a crucial 1-0 victory on the final day of last season that secured Champions League qualification. That match showcased Chelsea’s ability to grind out results in pressure situations.

The aggregate score over the last five meetings stands at 9-8 in Chelsea’s favour, highlighting how closely contested these fixtures have become. Both teams have demonstrated attacking intent, with four of the last five meetings featuring at least three goals.

Nottingham Forest and Chelsea Players That Used to Play in the EFL

Several current squad members honed their skills in the Championship and lower leagues.

Nottingham Forest:

Morgan Gibbs-White – Swansea City, Sheffield United (Championship) The Forest playmaker spent loan spells at Swansea and Sheffield United in the Championship, where he developed his creativity and vision. His time in the second tier proved invaluable, teaching him the physical and mental demands of English football before his breakthrough at Wolves and subsequent £25 million move to Forest.

Chris Wood – Leicester City, Brighton, Bristol City (Championship) The New Zealand striker scored prolifically in the Championship with Bristol City (30 goals in 88 games) and Leicester (2 goals in 42 games), establishing himself as a reliable target man. His Championship experience with multiple clubs developed his aerial prowess and positioning that have made him such an effective Premier League striker.

Neco Williams – Fulham (Championship loan) The Welsh full-back spent time on loan at Fulham during their promotion-winning 2021/22 Championship campaign, making 14 appearances and providing valuable width and energy down the right flank.

Chelsea:

Malo Gusto – No EFL experience The French right-back joined directly from Lyon, but Chelsea’s loan system has historically developed players in the Championship.

Reece James – Wigan Athletic (Championship loan) Chelsea’s captain spent the 2018/19 season on loan at Wigan, making 46 appearances and winning the club’s Player of the Year award. That Championship experience proved transformative, developing his defensive awareness and attacking threat before his return to Stamford Bridge.

Conor Gallagher – Charlton, Swansea, West Brom (Championship loans) The midfielder’s multiple Championship loans were crucial to his development, accumulating over 70 appearances across three clubs. These experiences taught him the tactical discipline and work rate that made him a Chelsea regular before his summer departure.

These EFL experiences demonstrate how the Championship remains a vital proving ground for young players, offering the perfect balance of physicality, technical demands and competitive intensity that prepares them for Premier League football.