Chelsea vs Nottingham Forest
Premier League
Saturday
2nd September 2023
Stamford Bridge
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of game week 4 of the Premier League fixture between Chelsea and Nottingham Forest.
Chelsea vs Nottingham Forest: Preview
Chelsea form analysis
Chelsea’s league form leading into September has been underwhelming, producing just 1 win while losing 2 of their last 5 games.
Their disappointing end to last season has carried over into this campaign. Chelsea were thrashed 1-4 at home by Manchester United before scraping a 1-1 draw with Newcastle on the final day.
This stuttering form has continued under the new head coach. After holding Liverpool to a draw at home, Chelsea were beaten convincingly 3-1 at West Ham in a poor display.
Their only victory came against Luton, winning 3-0 comfortably thanks to a Sterling brace. But dropping points consistently versus direct rivals is a real concern in the early title race shakeup.
Overall, it’s been an alarmingly poor start to the season for a new-look Chelsea. Finding defensive solidity, maintaining intensity and gaining confidence with wins are urgently needed to get their campaign on track.
Nottingham Forest form analysis
Nottingham Forest have made a spirited start to their second season in the Premier League, producing 2 wins, 1 draw and 2 losses from their last 5 games.
They ended last season excellently by beating top 4 chasing Arsenal 1-0 at home. Forest then frustrated Crystal Palace to draw 1-1 on the final day.
Steve Cooper’s side recorded their first win of the season on the opening day by beating West Ham 1-0 away thanks to a Taiwo Awoniyi goal.
Forest then came from behind to beat Sheffield United 2-1 at home, with Awoniyi again on target. However, their 100% start ended with a 2-3 home loss in a thriller against Manchester United last time out after being reduced to 10 men.
Overall, it’s been a promising opening spell for Forest in their second season in the Premier League after 23 years away. Built on defensive resilience and Awoniyi’s goals, maintaining this form could make it a memorable comeback season at this level.
