Nottingham Forest will host Newcastle United at the City Ground in the second round of the EFL Cup on Wednesday. Both teams have started the season strongly with four points each from their opening two league matches.
This encounter promises to be a competitive clash as both sides aim to progress in the cup competition and replicate their successful runs from the 2022-23 season.
Match Preview
Nottingham Forest
Nottingham Forest Recent Form
Forest has had a solid start to the season, currently sitting in the top seven of the Premier League after two games.
They narrowly missed an opening day win against Bournemouth but managed to secure a 1-0 victory over Southampton in their second match.
Despite having only 35% possession against the Saints, Forest were dominant in attack, outshooting their opponents 23 to 5 and achieving an xG nearly two points higher.
Nottingham Forest Injury News
Danilo remains the only injury absentee for Forest after suffering a severe ankle break in the draw against Bournemouth.
Taiwo Awoniyi could make a return to the starting lineup as he regains match fitness following his recent injury troubles.
Manager Nuno Espirito Santo might also rotate his squad, potentially bringing Ryan Yates and Willy Boly back into the starting XI.
Newcastle United
Newcastle United Recent Form
Newcastle has had a mixed start to their campaign, with a win and a draw in their opening two matches.
They narrowly secured a 1-0 victory over Southampton, even though they played with 10 men for over an hour. In their second match, a controversial VAR decision helped them earn a draw against Bournemouth.
Despite their luck so far, Newcastle will look to improve their performance to sustain a challenge in both the league and cup competitions.
Newcastle United Injury News
Newcastle faces several injury and suspension issues. Fabian Schar is serving a suspension following a headbutt incident, and both Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles are sidelined with injuries.
Young midfielder Lewis Miley is also out. Sandro Tonali, who is back from a ban for breaching gambling rules, might not start due to a lack of match sharpness.
Players To Watch
Nottingham Forest Player To Watch
Morgan Gibbs-White has been instrumental in Forest's attacking play, providing creativity and vision in the final third.
His ability to unlock defences will be crucial for Forest against a solid Newcastle side.
Newcastle United Player To Watch
Anthony Gordon, who recently opened his scoring account for the season, will be key for Newcastle. His pace and directness could pose a significant threat to Forest's defence.
Prediction
We predict a closely contested match with Newcastle United edging out a narrow 2-1 victory.
The Magpies' stronger squad depth and experience in crucial moments might prove decisive, especially if they field a strong team due to their limited squad options.
Nottingham Forest will provide a stern test, but Newcastle's desire to avenge their past cup defeats to Forest may give them the edge.
