Liverpool welcome Nottingham Forest to Anfield in an intriguing Premier League clash as both sides search for an early-season statement. The fixture will also mark Andoni Iraola’s first competitive Premier League game at Anfield as Liverpool manager, adding extra pressure on the Reds to deliver in front of the Kop.
Liverpool enter as favorites, but Nottingham Forest’s recent record at Anfield and impressive away scoring streak suggest this could be far less straightforward than the odds might imply.
Liverpool vs Nottingham Forest Match Preview
Liverpool began the 2026/27 Premier League campaign with plenty of optimism following Iraola’s appointment and several summer additions. However, their opening fixture was frustrating, as they needed a 99th-minute penalty to rescue a 2-2 draw against Newcastle United.
That result extended Liverpool’s Premier League winless streak to five matches (D3, L2), their longest such run since September 2012.
Returning to Anfield should provide a significant boost. Liverpool have traditionally started their home league campaigns strongly, having not lost their opening Premier League home fixture since 2003/04. They have won 12 of their last 13 such matches, with the other a draw.
Anything less than three points here would inevitably increase scrutiny around Liverpool’s slow start under Iraola.
Nottingham Forest Searching for a Response
Nottingham Forest endured a turbulent 2025/26 campaign, going through four different managers before eventually finishing only two places above the relegation zone.
The appointment of Oliver Glasner was designed to bring greater stability, but Forest have started the new campaign with consecutive defeats against Leeds United across league and cup competition.
Their opening away record also raises concerns, with Forest winning their first away league fixture in only one of the previous eight seasons (D3, L4).
There are reasons for optimism, though.
Forest finished last season strongly away from home, winning three of their final five Premier League road fixtures (D1, L1). More impressively, they have scored in ten consecutive Premier League away games, currently the longest active streak in the competition.
That attacking consistency could trouble a Liverpool defense that has struggled to keep opponents quiet.
Liverpool vs Nottingham Forest Head-to-Head
Forest have surprisingly enjoyed their recent visits to Anfield, winning their last two Premier League away meetings against Liverpool.
That is remarkable considering they had previously won just once across their preceding 30 league visits to Anfield (W1, D5, L24).
However, Forest have never won three consecutive league matches at Anfield.
Liverpool, therefore, has both revenge and history to play for.
Key Players to Watch
Dominik Szoboszlai – Liverpool
Dominik Szoboszlai once again delivered when Liverpool needed him most, converting the dramatic late penalty against Newcastle.
The Hungarian midfielder has developed a habit of making an impact later in matches, with five of his last seven goals arriving after half-time.
His shooting ability, creativity and threat from set pieces could make him one of Liverpool’s most important players against Forest.
Igor Jesus – Nottingham Forest
Forest may look towards Igor Jesus for their attacking inspiration.
The striker has been particularly dangerous away from home, with 12 of his 16 goals for Forest coming on the road.
Given Liverpool’s recent defensive vulnerabilities, Igor Jesus could be worth watching in the anytime goalscorer market.
Team News and Injuries
Liverpool remain without Giovanni Leoni, Hugo Ekitike and Conor Bradley, who are long-term absentees.
Nottingham Forest, meanwhile, will monitor former Liverpool defender Neco Williams after he was forced off through injury in midweek.
Supporters and bettors should check confirmed starting line-ups before placing bets, as late team news could influence the available markets.
Liverpool vs Nottingham Forest Betting Tips
Several trends point towards goals at Anfield.
Liverpool’s last seven matches have seen both teams score, while Forest has found the net in each of their previous ten Premier League away fixtures.
Forest’s recent games have generally been tighter, with four of their last five competitive matches producing under 2.5 goals. Still, Liverpool’s attacking approach at home could force a more open contest.
Best Betting Tips
- Liverpool to win
- Both Teams to Score – Yes
- Over 2.5 Total Goals
- Liverpool Win & Both Teams to Score – higher-risk option
- Dominik Szoboszlai to score or assist – player market to consider
Liverpool vs Nottingham Forest Prediction
Liverpool desperately need a victory to generate momentum under Iraola, and returning to Anfield gives them the ideal opportunity.
Forest’s recent record on Merseyside cannot be ignored, while their ten-match Premier League away scoring streak suggests they possess enough attacking quality to punish Liverpool.
However, the Reds should have greater firepower and home advantage on their side. Expect Forest to make the contest uncomfortable before Liverpool’s attacking quality eventually proves decisive.
Prediction: Liverpool 3-1 Nottingham Forest
Best Bet: Liverpool to Win & Over 2.5 Goals
Alternative Bet: Both Teams to Score & Over 2.5 Goals
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Final Verdict
Liverpool may have endured an underwhelming start to the Iraola era, but Anfield presents an excellent opportunity to secure their first Premier League victory of the season.
Forest have demonstrated that they can score away from home and have remarkably won their last two league visits to Anfield. That makes an away goal a realistic possibility.
Liverpool’s superior attacking options and formidable record in opening home fixtures nevertheless make the Reds the stronger selection.
Final Prediction: Liverpool 3-1 Nottingham Forest.
