The stage is set for an exciting Falmer Stadium showdown as Brighton faces Nottingham Forest in the 2024/25 English Premier League (EPL). Both teams come into this match level on points, with eight each after four games. Forest are riding high after a historic win over Liverpool at Anfield, and they will be eager to build on that momentum. Meanwhile, Brighton are aiming for a bounce-back performance in front of their home crowd, having registered consecutive draws in their last two EPL outings.
Brighton started the season in fine form, securing impressive victories over Everton away and Manchester United at home. However, their momentum slowed with a 1-1 draw against Arsenal at the Emirates, followed by a goalless stalemate against Ipswich Town at Falmer Stadium. A recent EFL Cup win over Wolverhampton has reignited some positivity for the Seagulls as they look to return to winning ways in the league.
Nottingham Forest began their campaign with a 1-1 draw at home against Bournemouth before clinching a 1-0 win away at Southampton. They followed that up with another 1-1 home draw against Wolves but made headlines with a stunning 1-0 victory over Liverpool at Anfield in their last game. Interestingly, Nuno Espirito Santo’s side have struggled at home but have thrived on the road, so Forest fans will be hoping for another strong away performance in this crucial clash.
Team News
Brighton
The spotlight will be on Joao Pedro, who missed the last two matches in all competitions. Addressing Pedro's injury and his potential inclusion in the starting XI against Nottingham Forest, coach Fabian Hurzeler stated that the team will proceed with caution.
In a press conference, Hurzeler shared, "Joao will train with the team today, and we’ll see how it goes. If he can fully participate and perform all the necessary movements, we’ll evaluate his situation. Of course, we won’t take any risks, but he will be part of today’s training."
After scoring five goals in their first two EPL matches, Brighton have managed just one goal in the last two, highlighting an issue with finishing chances. For instance, despite taking 21 shots against Ipswich Town, only six were on target, and none resulted in a goal.
Hurzeler acknowledged this as an area that needs improvement, but he was impressed by Simon Adingra's performance in the EFL Cup match against Wolves. Whether Adingra earns a spot in the starting lineup remains to be seen, but he will be one to watch. Meanwhile, James Milner continues his recovery from a hamstring injury and remains in rehabilitation.
Nottingham Forest
Speaking about the injury situation within the squad, coach Nuno Espirito Santo told BBC Sport: "The same players remain out. [Willy] Boly is very close to rejoining the group. Unfortunately, Ibrahim Sangare and Danilo will be sidelined for a while."
As a result, no significant changes are expected, with Nuno likely relying on the same group of players available in recent matches. However, maintaining their unbeaten streak will be a challenging task with the current squad's limitations.
Likely Lineups
Brighton
Verbruggen, Veltman, van Hecke, Dunk, Hinshelwood, Minteh, Quomah Baleba, Ayari, Mitoma, Rutter, Welback
Nottingham Forest
Sels, Moreno, Murillo, Milenkovic, Aina, Ward-Prowse, Yates, Anderson, Gibbs-White, Dominguez, Wood
Key Players
Brighton – Kaoru Mitoma
The Japanese winger has been a key player for the team over the past few seasons, and this year is no exception. In the first four EPL games, he has contributed one goal and an assist. His blistering pace and ability to surge down the flank set him apart from the rest.
Brighton fans will be hoping for more magic from Mitoma, as he has the potential to be a game-changer for the Seagulls. While he has been effective in creating chances, he will need to elevate his goal-scoring form to help his team return to winning ways.
Nottingham Forest – Chris Wood
The Kiwi striker has spearheaded the attack in the first four games, netting two goals. He will aim to extend his goalscoring form in this crucial fixture. However, for Forest to capitalize on his abilities, the team will need to create more opportunities for Wood, giving him better chances to convert.
Players like Anderson and Gibbs-White will be key in this effort, as their ability to break through the final third will be crucial in increasing Forest’s goal-scoring chances. If they can engage more effectively in the attacking phase, it could significantly boost the Reds’ prospects of finding the back of the net.
Match Details
Where is the game being played?
Brighton are the host for this clash as the match is going to take place at Falmer Stadium.
What time is kick-off?
2.00 PM BST on Sunday
How can I watch?
Local broadcasters around the world will televise the match.
