Nottingham Forest has struggled to make their home ground a fortress despite a solid start to the Premier League season. A victory against Crystal Palace under the Monday night lights would mark their first home win this term, having drawn 1-1 with Bournemouth and Wolves and suffered a 1-0 defeat to Fulham.
Recent Performances
Forest also faced disappointment in the Carabao Cup, bowing out to Newcastle after a 4-3 penalty shootout loss following another 1-1 draw. Adding to their challenges, manager Nuno Espirito Santo will be absent for Monday’s match due to a touchline ban stemming from an incident at Brighton.
However, the Tricky Trees have recorded impressive away wins, defeating Southampton and Liverpool 1-0, and earning draws against Brighton (2-2) and Chelsea (1-1), even with James Ward-Prowse sent off in the latter match.
Crystal Palace’s Struggles
Palace, on the other hand, is still searching for their first win this season. After defeats to Brentford and West Ham, they drew with Chelsea, Leicester, and Manchester United before suffering another loss at Everton and a 1-0 defeat at home to Liverpool just before the international break.
Currently sitting in 18th place, Palace has managed only three points and must start winning to avoid falling further behind.
Key Players and Odds
Nottingham Forest will miss Morgan Gibbs-White, who is suspended due to the same incident at Brighton. Chris Wood, who has scored four goals this season, is a potential match-winner, with odds of 13/2 to score first and 5/2 to score at any time. Eberechi Eze is also a threat for the visitors, with odds of 7/2 to find the net.
Despite having failed to score in three matches this season, Palace will look to capitalize on Forest’s defensive vulnerabilities. The hosts have only been shut out once, in their loss to Fulham, making a bet on Forest to win with both teams scoring at 4/1 appealing.