Nottingham Forest will kick off their 2025/26 Premier League season with a home clash against a transitional Brentford side. Forest, fresh from their highest top-flight finish since 1994/95, face a daunting task against a Brentford team undergoing significant changes under new manager Keith Andrews.
Forest have experienced a challenging pre-season (D5, L2) and the departure of key attacker Anthony Elanga has raised concerns about their offensive firepower. However, new signings Dan Ndoye from Bologna and Igor Jesus from Botafogo, along with Morgan Gibbs-White’s new contract, provide some optimism for the City Ground faithful.
Brentford, on the other hand, is rebuilding after Thomas Frank’s exit and the sales of Bryan Mbeumo, Mark Flekken, and Christian Norgaard. Despite this, the Bees enjoyed an unbeaten pre-season, which could bode well for their start to the Premier League campaign.
Recent Form and Key Stats
Forest have struggled to get off to a flying start in recent seasons, failing to win in their season-opening league game for seven straight campaigns (D2, L5). They also have a worrying trend at home, not scoring after the 60th minute since February and failing to score first in their final four home league games of 2024/25.
Brentford, conversely, have excelled on the road in the Premier League, boasting the best away record of all clubs in the 2025 calendar year (W7, D2, L1). The Bees have scored in each of their last seven competitive matches, highlighting their attacking threat.
Head-to-Head Record
Historically, Forest have struggled against Brentford, winning only once in their last eight encounters (D3, L4). The last meeting at the City Ground ended in a 2-0 defeat for Forest, adding pressure on Nuno Espírito Santo’s side.
Key Players
- Nottingham Forest: Goalkeeper Matz Sels, who shared the Premier League’s highest clean sheets tally last season (13), will be pivotal. Midfielder Morgan Gibbs-White could also play a key role in unlocking Brentford’s defense.
- Brentford: Kevin Schade had a standout 2024/25 campaign, scoring in all eight victories, making him a player to watch. Keeper Caoimhin Kelleher’s fitness will be crucial for the Bees’ defense.
Prediction
Given Forest’s sluggish season starts and Brentford’s strong away record, the double chance market favors the Bees. Expect a tight contest with Brentford likely to either win or secure a draw at the City Ground. Forest will need time to gel, and early goals from Brentford could dictate the match’s tempo.
Predicted Score: Nottingham Forest 1-2 Brentford
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