Brighton & Hove Albion will host Nottingham Forest at the Amex Stadium this Sunday in what promises to be an engaging encounter during the Premier League’s 28th round. Brighton, currently sitting in 14th place, aims to secure consecutive league victories for the first time since November, potentially earning their ninth win of the season. This would also serve to increase the pressure on Nottingham Forest, who find themselves perilously close to the relegation zone in 17th place.
Recent history saw Brighton register a decisive 2-0 victory against Brentford, breaking a frustrating spell of six games without a win. Goals from Diego Gomez and Danny Welbeck not only marked a critical turnaround for the Seagulls but also helped maintain a nine-point cushion above the relegation spots. Coach Fabian Hurzeler’s side is determined to build on that momentum and distance themselves from any relegation fears, especially given that their last win against Nottingham Forest back in November was instrumental to their early-season efforts.
Brighton’s form has been a mixed bag, having only claimed one win in their last 13 matches before the recent victory. However, the confidence from last week’s success may shift gears as they face a Nottingham Forest team that has struggled offensively of late. The Tricky Trees have not scored in their last six matches, despite creating opportunities that led to an expected goals (xG) of just 3.86 from 56 shots since their last goal, a worrying trend that has led new manager Vitor Pereira to express frustration over missed chances.
With West Ham United creeping up the table, Nottingham Forest’s situation has grown increasingly precarious. They could plunge into the relegation zone if they fail to secure points against Brighton and depending on the outcome of West Ham’s match with Liverpool. Pereira’s men have shown resilience in Europe but need to transfer that form to the Premier League if they are to ensure safety.
Team news reveals Brighton’s James Milner, despite suffering a thigh injury against Brentford, is fit to play, although they will be without Adam Webster and Stefanos Tzimas due to knee injuries. Meanwhile, Danny Welbeck will be eager to hit a milestone—his 10th league goal of the season—matching his previous best, while Nottingham Forest is managing several players with injuries, including Chris Wood.
Predictions lean towards a tightly contested match, with Brighton favored to take the win, potentially 2-1, as they aim to clinch back-to-back victories and solidify their league standing. As they confront Nottingham Forest, Brighton hopes that their newfound momentum, combined with the pressure on the visiting side, will guide them towards a successful outcome.