Wrexham vs Nottingham Forest Prediction, Match Preview, 9 January

Wrexham are set to face Nottingham Forest in an exciting FA Cup clash on Friday, 9 January. The match will take place at the historic SToK Cae Ras, providing a classic backdrop for this intriguing encounter. Both teams will be eager to progress in this prestigious competition, promising a potentially thrilling match-up.

Wrexham, representing Wales, will look to capitalise on their home advantage against the English side, Nottingham Forest. This fixture is significant as it pits a lower-league team against a more established opponent, often resulting in unpredictable outcomes in the FA Cup. Fans and punters alike will be keen to see how the match unfolds, with both teams having much to prove on the pitch.

Wrexham vs Nottingham Forest Prediction & Betting Tip

Betting Tip	Odds
Nottingham Forest to Win and Both Teams to Score	2.62

Both teams scoring appears to be a strong betting tip for this encounter. Wrexham have been impressive at home and are likely to attack, but Nottingham Forest’s Premier League experience and quality should see them find the net as well.

• Wrexham are unbeaten in five consecutive home matches in this competition, suggesting they will be competitive and likely to score.
• Nottingham Forest are unbeaten in four consecutive away matches in this competition, highlighting their ability to score on the road.
• Despite missing key players, Wrexham’s attacking approach at home and Forest’s defensive lapses make both teams scoring a probable outcome.

Betting Odds

Wrexham may be the underdogs in this FA Cup tie, but with odds of 4.2, there is potential for a rewarding punt if they manage an upset. Nottingham Forest, meanwhile, are favourites at 1.78, reflecting their superior league status and recent form.

Betting Tip	Odds
Wrexham to win	4.2
Draw	3.62
Nottingham Forest to win	1.78

The draw is priced at 3.62, suggesting a competitive match. For those interested in alternative markets, both teams have shown attacking intent, making the over 2.5 goals market an intriguing option.

Wrexham Analysis & Recent Performance

Wrexham have enjoyed an impressive run recently, claiming four victories in their last five matches. Their recent results include a notable 2-1 win against Blackburn and a high-scoring 5-3 triumph over Sheffield United, showcasing their attacking prowess.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Derby	Wrexham	1 – 2 (Win)	Championship	4 Jan 2026
Blackburn	Wrexham	0 – 2 (Win)	Championship	1 Jan 2026
Wrexham	Preston	2 – 1 (Win)	Championship	29 Dec 2025
Wrexham	Sheffield United	5 – 3 (Win)	Championship	26 Dec 2025
Swansea	Wrexham	2 – 1 (Loss)	Championship	19 Dec 2025

Recent Form:

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Wrexham’s attack is in fine form, averaging 2.40 goals per game across their last five outings. However, they have conceded an average of 1.40 goals per match, highlighting a vulnerability at the back. Notably, they have kept just one clean sheet in these fixtures, indicating room for improvement in defensive solidity.

Wrexham Suspensions & Injuries

Wrexham approach this FA Cup tie against Nottingham Forest with the advantage of having no players absent due to injuries or suspensions. This full availability gives Phil Parkinson a rare opportunity to field his strongest eleven, allowing the team to maintain their preferred tactical setup without any enforced changes. The absence of unavailable players will boost Wrexham’s confidence, as they can deploy their optimal formation and strategy.

With the entire squad fit, Wrexham have the flexibility to make strategic decisions based on form and tactics rather than necessity. This could see Phil Parkinson opt for an aggressive approach, using the full depth of his squad to press Nottingham Forest high up the pitch. The presence of key players such as Arthur Okonkwo in goal and a robust midfield will be crucial in dictating the tempo.

The lack of injuries or suspensions also means Wrexham can rely on their usual defensive solidity, with Max Cleworth and Dominic Hyam ready to anchor the backline. This stability will be essential in countering Nottingham Forest’s attacking threats and could prove decisive in a tightly contested cup tie.

From a betting perspective, Wrexham’s full squad availability could sway opinions in their favour, offering punters a more predictable assessment of their performance. With no key players missing, Wrexham’s chances of progressing in the FA Cup appear more favourable, potentially impacting betting odds and market expectations.

Wrexham Key Players

Wrexham’s line-up is set to feature a blend of experienced players and emerging talents, each playing a pivotal role in their FA Cup clash against Nottingham Forest. While specific statistics on the top scorer remain undisclosed, the team’s attacking threat is expected to be led by key forwards whose ability to exploit defensive weaknesses could prove decisive. The attacking line will need to capitalise on any lapses from Nottingham Forest’s defence, pushing for an early advantage.

In midfield, Wrexham rely heavily on their playmakers to dictate the tempo and ensure smooth transitions between defence and attack. The midfielders are tasked with disrupting the opposition’s rhythm while creating opportunities for the forwards. Their tactical impact is crucial, providing both defensive cover and offensive support to ensure a balanced approach throughout the match.

Defensively, Wrexham’s backline will be instrumental in maintaining stability and thwarting Nottingham Forest’s offensive threats. The defenders’ physical presence and reading of the game are vital to keeping a clean sheet. The defensive unit must work in tandem with the goalkeeper to repel advances, strengthening the team’s overall defensive resolve.

Wrexham Tactics and Formation

Wrexham Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 3-5-2
• Key Forward: Nathan Broadhead
• Midfield Engine: Matthew James and Ben Sheaf
• Defensive Resilience: One clean sheet in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: Emphasis on wing play and midfield control.

Wrexham’s 3-5-2 formation makes the most of a robust midfield, with Matthew James and Ben Sheaf orchestrating play from the centre. This setup allows Wrexham to maintain possession and dictate the tempo, which is crucial against opponents like Nottingham Forest who may press high.

Defensively, the back three of Max Cleworth, Dominic Hyam, and Callum Doyle provide a solid base, although the team have managed only one clean sheet in their last five matches. The wing-backs play a vital role, tasked with both defensive duties and providing width in attack.

In attack, Nathan Broadhead leads the line alongside Sam Smith, relying on quick interchanges and support from midfield runners. Wrexham’s strategy often involves exploiting the flanks, with Ryan Longman and George Thomason providing width and crossing opportunities.

Nottingham Forest Analysis & Recent Performance

Nottingham Forest have struggled for consistency in recent matches, securing just one victory in their last five outings. Their recent form shows a concerning pattern, with four defeats and only a single win, which came against West Ham (2-1) in their most recent game.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
West Ham	Nottingham Forest	1 – 2 (Win)	Premier League	6 Jan 2026
Aston Villa	Nottingham Forest	3 – 1 (Loss)	Premier League	3 Jan 2026
Nottingham Forest	Everton	0 – 2 (Loss)	Premier League	30 Dec 2025
Nottingham Forest	Manchester City	1 – 2 (Loss)	Premier League	27 Dec 2025
Fulham	Nottingham Forest	1 – 0 (Loss)	Premier League	22 Dec 2025

Recent Form:

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In their last five games, Nottingham Forest have averaged 0.80 goals per match while conceding 1.80, highlighting defensive vulnerabilities. They have failed to keep a clean sheet during this period, which is a critical area for improvement. Despite averaging 2.6 combined goals per game, their defence has been breached in every fixture, indicating problems with maintaining leads and defensive solidity. Their away form has been slightly better, with two wins in their last five, maintaining a 40% win ratio on the road.

Nottingham Forest Suspensions & Injuries

Nottingham Forest will be relieved to enter the FA Cup tie against Wrexham with a clean bill of health regarding suspensions and injuries. This fortunate situation allows manager Sean Dyche the luxury of selecting from a full squad, potentially enhancing their chances of progressing in the competition. The absence of unavailable players means Forest can maintain their preferred tactical setup without the need for major adjustments.

The availability of key players such as Morgan Gibbs-White and Callum Hudson-Odoi will be instrumental in Nottingham Forest’s attacking play. With no disruptions to their line-up, the team can focus on exploiting their offensive strengths against Wrexham. This full-strength squad provides a solid foundation for a cohesive team performance.

With a complete squad at his disposal, Sean Dyche may stick to a familiar formation that has served the team well in recent matches. This continuity in team selection is expected to bring stability and confidence, allowing Forest to execute their game plan effectively.

Betting markets may see Nottingham Forest’s full squad availability as a significant advantage over Wrexham, potentially influencing odds in their favour. With no injury or suspension setbacks, Forest will aim to capitalise on their depth and quality, making them formidable opponents in this FA Cup fixture.

Nottingham Forest Key Players

As Nottingham Forest prepare to face Wrexham, the spotlight will be on their attacking players to secure FA Cup progression. Although specific top scorer details are unavailable, the team’s forward line is expected to play a pivotal role. Nottingham Forest typically rely on their attacking talent to break down defences, and this match will be no exception.

In midfield, the playmaker’s role will be crucial for orchestrating the team’s tactical approach and ensuring smooth transitions from defence to attack. The midfielders are responsible for creating scoring opportunities as well as maintaining possession under pressure. Their ability to control the tempo could be decisive for Nottingham Forest’s success.

Defensively, Nottingham Forest’s backline will need to display resilience and composure, especially against Wrexham’s counter-attacks. The defenders’ ability to read the game and make timely interventions will be key to preventing lapses that could lead to conceding goals. The overall tactical impact of these players, in both offensive and defensive phases, is likely to shape the outcome of the match.

Nottingham Forest Tactics and Formation

Nottingham Forest Tactical Breakdown:

• Expected Formation: 4-2-3-1
• Key Forward: Igor Jesus
• Midfield Engine: Nicolas Dominguez and Elliot Anderson
• Defensive Setup: Struggled with clean sheets recently
• Notable Strategy: Emphasis on ball possession and wing play.

Nottingham Forest’s likely 4-2-3-1 formation offers a balanced approach, allowing them to dominate the midfield with Nicolas Dominguez and Elliot Anderson. This duo is crucial in maintaining possession and orchestrating attacks, while Morgan Gibbs-White operates as the creative force behind striker Igor Jesus.

Defensively, the backline features Ola Aina and Neco Williams as full-backs, alongside central defenders Nikola Milenković and Murillo. Despite their efforts, the team have struggled to keep clean sheets, conceding in all of their last five matches, which points to potential vulnerabilities in defensive organisation.

In attack, Nottingham Forest tend to exploit the wings, with Callum Hudson-Odoi and Omari Hutchinson providing width and pace. This strategy is complemented by their focus on ball retention, as shown by their 53% possession in the previous match against West Ham, though they need to improve their efficiency in front of goal.

Wrexham vs Nottingham Forest Head-to-Head Record

This fixture between Wrexham and Nottingham Forest marks their first-ever head-to-head encounter, making it an exciting prospect for both sets of supporters. With no previous meetings to reference, both teams will be eager to make a strong impression in this FA Cup tie.

Given this is their inaugural meeting, there are no historical patterns or results to consider. Wrexham will be keen to make the most of their home advantage at SToK Cae Ras, while Nottingham Forest will look to assert their experience from higher-tier competitions. This fresh match-up sets the stage for an unpredictable and thrilling contest.