Nottingham Forest vs Liverpool Prediction, Match Preview and Betting Tips, Sunday, 22 February

Nottingham Forest will host Liverpool at the City Ground, Nottingham, this Sunday, 22 February, in a Premier League clash that promises to be an intriguing encounter. As both teams look to secure valuable points, this match could have significant implications for their respective positions in the league table. Nottingham Forest, playing on home turf, will aim to leverage their familiarity with the City Ground to challenge Liverpool, who are renowned for their strong performances in the Premier League.

Liverpool, with their rich history and recent successes, will be keen to assert their dominance against Nottingham Forest. However, the home side will be eager to prove their mettle in front of their supporters. This Premier League fixture is not just about the points; it is a test of strategy and resilience for both teams. As we delve into the prediction, match preview, and betting tips, the focus will be on how each team plans to outmanoeuvre the other in this pivotal match.

Nottingham Forest vs Liverpool Prediction & Betting Tip

Betting Tip	Odds
Draw	3.89

Considering the match dynamics and the respective team forms, our recommended betting tip is to back a draw. This selection balances Liverpool’s likely dominance in possession with Nottingham Forest’s need to remain compact and disciplined defensively.

• Liverpool have shown inconsistency and have conceded most of their goals late in matches, which could give Forest the chance to hold on for a draw.
• Nottingham Forest’s defensive approach and reliance on counterattacks may frustrate Liverpool’s attacking plans, making a draw plausible.
• The high average of yellow cards given by referee Anthony Taylor suggests a tense, closely contested game that could end level.

Betting Odds

Liverpool travel to the City Ground as favourites with odds of 1.8, reflecting their strong form in the Premier League. Nottingham Forest, however, should not be underestimated, especially at home, with odds of 4.07 suggesting a potential upset.

Betting Tip	Odds
Nottingham Forest to win	4.07
Draw	3.89
Liverpool to win	1.8

A draw is priced at 3.89, which could be tempting for those expecting a tightly contested match. With both teams possessing attacking quality, the over 2.5 goals market is worth considering for those seeking to profit from a high-scoring affair.

Nottingham Forest Analysis & Recent Performance

Nottingham Forest’s recent form presents a mixed picture as they prepare to face Liverpool. Over their last five matches, they have secured two wins, two draws, and one loss, indicating a degree of resilience, particularly in cup competitions. A standout performance came in their recent 3-0 victory against Fenerbahçe in the Europa League, showcasing their capability in European fixtures. However, their Premier League form remains inconsistent, highlighted by a 0-0 draw against Wolverhampton and a 3-1 loss to Leeds, reflecting their struggles in domestic play.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Fenerbahçe	Nottingham Forest	0 – 3 (Win)	Europa League Knockout Stage	19 Feb 2026
Nottingham Forest	Wolverhampton	0 – 0 (Draw)	Premier League	11 Feb 2026
Leeds	Nottingham Forest	3 – 1 (Loss)	Premier League	6 Feb 2026
Nottingham Forest	Crystal Palace	1 – 1 (Draw)	Premier League	1 Feb 2026
Nottingham Forest	Ferencváros	4 – 0 (Win)	Europa League	29 Jan 2026

Recent Form:
Nottingham Forest’s attack has been moderately effective, averaging 1.80 goals per game in their last five contests, with Morgan Gibbs-White being a pivotal figure, contributing significantly with six goals this season. Defensively, they have maintained a solid base with three clean sheets in the same period, conceding an average of 0.80 goals per game. This defensive sturdiness, however, is more pronounced in away matches than at home, where they have struggled to convert draws into wins, as seen in their home win ratio of just 20%.

In terms of league standing, Nottingham Forest currently sit 17th with 27 points, reflecting their challenges in maintaining consistent form. Their overall win ratio this season is 27%, and they have managed to score in 14 out of 26 matches. The upcoming fixture against Brighton will be a crucial test of their ability to improve their away form, as they aim to climb out of the relegation zone.

• WDLDW

Nottingham Forest Suspensions & Injuries

Nottingham Forest face a challenging encounter against Liverpool with a few key players unavailable due to injuries. Chris Wood and Willy Boly are sidelined with knee injuries, with Wood expected back in mid-April and Boly’s absence stretching into late May. The absence of these experienced players could impact Forest’s depth, particularly in defence and attack, as Boly’s defensive prowess and Wood’s attacking threat will be sorely missed.

Matz Sels’ muscle injury, keeping him out until late February, presents a challenge in goalkeeping options, although Stefan Ortega’s presence in the starting lineup offers some respite. Nicolo Savona’s doubtful status due to a knee injury also needs monitoring, as his potential return could bolster the squad’s midfield flexibility.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Chris Wood	Knee injury	Mid-April 2026
John Victor	Knee injury	Early June 2026
Nicolo Savona	Knee injury	Doubtful
Matz Sels	Muscle injury	Late February 2026
Willy Boly	Knee injury	Late May 2026

With these injuries, Nottingham Forest may rely on tactical adjustments to compensate for the missing players. The current 4-2-3-1 formation, featuring Ortega in goal and a defensive line including Milenković and Morato, will need to maintain resilience against Liverpool’s formidable attack. The midfield’s creativity, led by Morgan Gibbs-White, will be crucial in linking play and providing service to forward Lorenzo Lucca.

The betting markets might see these absences as a disadvantage for Nottingham Forest, potentially influencing odds in Liverpool’s favour. However, Forest’s ability to adapt and utilise their available squad depth will be key in determining their competitiveness in this fixture.

Nottingham Forest Key Players

Nottingham Forest’s attacking hopes largely rest on Morgan Gibbs-White, the team’s top scorer with six goals. His ability to find the net and create opportunities makes him an essential figure in the attacking lineup. Gibbs-White’s versatility allows him to operate both as a playmaker and a goal threat, which could be pivotal in breaking through Liverpool’s defence. Alongside him, Lorenzo Lucca is expected to lead the forward line, relying on his physicality and aerial prowess to disrupt the opposition’s backline.

In midfield, Ibrahim Sangaré’s role as a defensive anchor is crucial. His ability to break up play and distribute the ball efficiently will be vital in controlling the tempo against a high-pressing Liverpool side. Elliot Anderson and Omari Hutchinson add creativity and dynamism, providing the necessary support to Gibbs-White and Lucca. Defensively, the pairing of Nikola Milenković and Morato will need to be at their best to withstand the attacking threats posed by Liverpool.

Expected lineup for Nottingham Forest

• Goalkeeper: Stefan Ortega
• Defence: Ola Aina, Neco Williams, Nikola Milenković, Morato
• Midfield: Omari Hutchinson, Callum Hudson-Odoi, Ibrahim Sangaré, Elliot Anderson, Morgan Gibbs-White
• Forward: Lorenzo Lucca

Nottingham Forest Tactics and Formation

Nottingham Forest Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-2-3-1
• Key Forward: Lorenzo Lucca
• Midfield Pivot: Ibrahim Sangaré and Omari Hutchinson
• Defensive Strength: Three clean sheets in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: Utilises width effectively with wingers Callum Hudson-Odoi and Morgan Gibbs-White.

Nottingham Forest’s 4-2-3-1 formation under Vítor Pereira is designed to provide both defensive stability and attacking options. The midfield pivot of Ibrahim Sangaré and Omari Hutchinson is crucial for controlling the tempo, offering a mix of defensive cover and creative distribution.

Defensively, Stefan Ortega in goal is supported by a backline featuring Ola Aina and Neco Williams as full-backs, with Nikola Milenković and Morato centrally. This setup has contributed to Forest maintaining three clean sheets in their recent fixtures, emphasising their defensive resilience.

Offensively, the team looks to exploit width through wingers Callum Hudson-Odoi and Morgan Gibbs-White, aiming to create opportunities for Lorenzo Lucca, the focal point in attack. Their recent 3-0 win against Fenerbahçe highlights their ability to transition effectively and capitalise on scoring chances.

Liverpool Analysis & Recent Performance

Liverpool have been showcasing strong form recently, securing four wins in their last five matches. Notably, they achieved a commanding 3-0 victory against Brighton in the FA Cup and a significant 1-0 win over Sunderland in the Premier League.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Liverpool	Brighton	3 – 0 (Win)	FA Cup	14 Feb 2026
Sunderland	Liverpool	0 – 1 (Win)	Premier League	11 Feb 2026
Liverpool	Manchester City	1 – 2 (Loss)	Premier League	8 Feb 2026
Liverpool	Newcastle	4 – 1 (Win)	Premier League	31 Jan 2026
Liverpool	Qarabag FK	6 – 0 (Win)	Champions League	28 Jan 2026

Recent Form:
Across their last five games, Liverpool have averaged 3.00 goals per match while conceding only 0.60 goals, highlighting both their attacking prowess and defensive solidity. They have maintained three clean sheets during this period, showcasing their ability to shut out opponents effectively. Despite a 1-2 loss to Manchester City, Liverpool’s form has been impressive, with consistent goal-scoring in each match.

Away Performance:
Liverpool’s away form has been relatively stable, with two wins, two draws, and one loss in their last five away fixtures. They have managed to score in every away game, with a win ratio of 40% on the road, indicating a competitive edge when playing away from Anfield. Their capacity to adapt and perform under different conditions makes them a formidable opponent.

Key Players and Strategy:

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Hugo Ekitike stands out as Liverpool’s top scorer, contributing significantly to their attack. The team’s strategy often involves high pressing and quick transitions, which have been effective in breaking down defences. Liverpool’s ability to control possession and create numerous scoring opportunities remains a key strength in their gameplay.

Liverpool Suspensions & Injuries

Liverpool approach this fixture with several significant injuries, including Joel Matip and Conor Bradley, both ruled out for the season. Their absence, particularly Matip’s, impacts the team’s defensive depth, though Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté remain available to anchor the backline. Stefan Bajcetic and Wataru Endo are also sidelined, limiting options in midfield, but Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister are ready to step in, providing a blend of creativity and dynamism.

The absence of Alexander Isak, due to a broken leg, will be felt in Liverpool’s attacking options. However, with Hugo Ekitike leading the line, supported by the likes of Mohamed Salah and Cody Gakpo, Liverpool still boast a potent offensive threat. Jeremie Frimpong’s expected return later this month may provide a timely boost, adding versatility to the squad.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Joel Matip	Cruciate ligament injury	Out for season
Stefan Bajcetic	Hamstring injury	Early May 2026
Giovanni Leoni	Cruciate ligament injury	Early August 2026
Jayden Danns	Hamstring injury	Unknown
Alexander Isak	Broken leg	Mid April 2026
Conor Bradley	Knee injury	Out for season
Jeremie Frimpong	Muscle injury	Late February 2026
Wataru Endo	Broken ankle	Early May 2026

Tactically, Liverpool may opt to maintain their 4-2-3-1 formation, ensuring solidity at the back while leveraging the pace and skill of their available forwards. The absence of key players could influence betting markets, potentially making Liverpool less favoured compared to a full-strength lineup.

The injuries have forced Liverpool to rely on their squad depth, with players like Curtis Jones and Florian Wirtz expected to play pivotal roles in both defence and attack. This reliance on youth and less experienced players could be a double-edged sword, offering fresh energy but also testing the team’s consistency against a resilient Nottingham Forest side.

Liverpool Key Players

Leading Liverpool’s attack is their top scorer Hugo Ekitike, who has netted 10 goals this season. Ekitike’s prowess in front of goal and ability to exploit defensive gaps make him a crucial asset, especially in high-pressure situations. His role as the focal point in Liverpool’s attack means he will be pivotal in breaking down Nottingham Forest’s defence.

In midfield, the dynamic duo of Alexis Mac Allister and Mohamed Salah can significantly influence Liverpool’s tactical approach. Mac Allister’s creativity and vision, combined with Salah’s agility and goal-scoring ability, provide Liverpool with a potent attacking threat. Salah, often cutting inside from the right flank, creates numerous opportunities, while Mac Allister’s ability to control the midfield tempo is vital for dictating play.

Expected lineup for Liverpool

• Goalkeeper: Alisson Becker
• Defenders: Virgil van Dijk, Andrew Robertson, Ibrahima Konaté, Curtis Jones
• Midfielders: Ryan Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister, Mohamed Salah, Florian Wirtz, Cody Gakpo
• Forward: Hugo Ekitike

Defensively, Virgil van Dijk remains a cornerstone for Liverpool. His leadership and aerial ability are essential in maintaining a solid backline. Alongside him, Andrew Robertson offers width and crossing ability from the left flank, adding another dimension to Liverpool’s attack. The combination of these key players ensures Liverpool’s strength both in defence and attack, as they look to secure a crucial victory.

Liverpool Tactics and Formation

Liverpool Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-2-3-1
• Key Forward: Hugo Ekitike
• Midfield Pivot: Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister
• Defensive Strength: Three clean sheets in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: Emphasis on quick transitions and exploiting wide areas.

Liverpool’s 4-2-3-1 formation provides them with a balanced approach, combining defensive solidity with offensive dynamism. The midfield pairing of Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister is crucial, offering both defensive cover and the ability to initiate attacks. Mohamed Salah, operating from the right, remains a significant threat in wide areas.

Defensively, the presence of Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté in central defence provides a strong backbone, complemented by Andrew Robertson’s overlapping runs from left-back. This setup has contributed to Liverpool achieving three clean sheets in their last five matches, underscoring their defensive resilience.

Offensively, Liverpool focus on quick transitions, often looking to exploit the pace and creativity of Cody Gakpo and Florian Wirtz. With Hugo Ekitike as the focal point in attack, their ability to convert chances has been evident, as seen in their recent scoring form.

Nottingham Forest vs Liverpool Head-to-Head Record

In the last eight head-to-head encounters, Liverpool have a slight edge with four wins compared to Nottingham Forest’s three, and there has been one draw. The most recent clash saw Forest pull off a surprising 3-0 victory at Anfield in November 2025, a rare feat for any visiting team.

The last time Nottingham Forest hosted Liverpool at the City Ground, the match ended in a 1-1 draw in January 2025. Forest will be looking to leverage their home advantage once again, although Liverpool’s overall head-to-head record suggests they might have the upper hand.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Liverpool	Nottingham Forest	0 – 3	Premier League	2025-11-22
Nottingham Forest	Liverpool	1 – 1	Premier League	2025-01-14
Liverpool	Nottingham Forest	0 – 1	Premier League	2024-09-14
Nottingham Forest	Liverpool	0 – 1	Premier League	2024-03-02
Liverpool	Nottingham Forest	3 – 0	Premier League	2023-10-29