An intriguing Premier League clash awaits as Wolverhampton Wanderers host Nottingham Forest at Molineux tonight. With former Wolves manager Nuno Espírito Santo now at the helm of a high-flying Forest side, the fixture carries emotional weight and promises plenty of action to round out the gameweek.
Forest are, incredibly, eyeing Champions League contention, while Wolves seek to climb further away from the relegation zone. Here’s everything you need to know about the match ahead of kickoff.
Wolves Recent Form
Wolves have had mixed fortunes in recent weeks. Despite a spirited comeback to draw against Tottenham in their last outing, they remain dangerously close to the relegation zone in 17th place.
The recent managerial change has brought renewed energy, with Wolves unbeaten in their last three league games under Vítor Pereira. However, consistency remains a concern, especially given their leaky defence.
Nottingham Forest Recent Form
Nottingham Forest are in remarkable form, winning their last five Premier League games. They have kept clean sheets in their last three matches, underscoring their ability to keep it tight at the back.
Their 2-0 victory over Everton showcased their attacking quality, once again driven by Chris Wood and Morgan Gibbs-White, and has marked them as genuine contenders for a Champions League spot come May.
Injury and Team News
Wolves
Wolves face significant injury woes. Key attacker Matheus Cunha is suspended, while Sasa Kalajdzic, Boubacar Traoré, and Pablo Sarabia are sidelined with injuries.
Andre may miss out, leaving Tommy Doyle likely to feature in midfield. Jorgen Strand Larsen is expected to start upfront in Cunha’s absence.
Nottingham Forest
Forest's squad is in better shape, with only Danilo and Ibrahim Sangaré confirmed out. The potential returns of Murillo, Callum Hudson-Odoi, and Ryan Yates bolster their lineup, providing Nuno Espírito Santo with several options.
Last Wolves Lineup
Here is how Wolves lined up for their last match:
Last Nottingham Forest Lineup
Here is how Forest lined up for their last match:
Wolves vs Nottingham Forest - Who is the referee and VAR?
The officiating team for the game includes:
Referee: Peter Bankes
Assistants: Nick Greenhalgh, Akil Howson
Fourth official: Michael Salisbury
VAR: Alex Chilowicz
Assistant VAR: Neil Davies.
Wolves Player to Watch
Hwang Hee-chan
Hwang has been a reliable outlet for Wolves, contributing crucial goals and assists this season. With Cunha absent, Hwang’s ability to exploit defensive lapses will be vital.
Nottingham Forest Player to Watch
Chris Wood
Wood is in stellar form, having scored 11 league goals this season. He’s one strike away from becoming Forest’s all-time Premier League top scorer under a single manager.
Prediction
Despite Wolves' home advantage, Forest’s momentum and defensive solidity give them the edge. Expect Nuno Espírito Santo to make a triumphant return to Molineux.
Our Prediction: Wolves 1-2 Nottingham Forest
Betting Tips
Tip 1
Both Teams to Score - Yes: Wolves have failed to score in only one of their last five home games, while Forest are potent upfront.
Tip 2
Chris Wood Anytime Scorer: Given his form, Wood is a strong candidate to find the back of the net.
Tip 3
Over 2.5 Goals: Forest’s attacking form and Wolves’ defensive frailty suggest a high-scoring affair.
