Ipswich vs Nottingham Forest: Pressure Mounts on a Struggling Forest

Nottingham Forest sit 19th of 20 in the Premier League with five points from seven matches, and their trip to Portman Road on Friday comes at a moment when each result is being read as a verdict on the season. Ipswich, 10th on nine points, are in a healthier position, but both sides share the same goal difference of -4, so this is a contest between two teams still searching for consistency.

Forest’s slide deepens

Forest’s problem goes beyond the table. Their last five league matches have brought three defeats, one win and one draw, and the wider season ends with three straight losses. Across seven league games they have scored just five times, and they are yet to find the net at the City Ground in any of their four home fixtures. Their last five outings have produced three goals for and six against. Until that changes, the pressure will keep building.

Ipswich’s late surge

Ipswich’s record is more balanced but far from comfortable. They have three wins and four defeats from seven, with their home form split between two wins and a single loss. Their last five matches have yielded seven goals for and nine against. A notable pattern is their timing: six of their 11 league goals this season have arrived between the 76th and 90th minutes, suggesting they have a habit of finishing games strongly.

Forest’s recent record against Ipswich

Forest have the upper hand in recent meetings. Their most recent league visit to Portman Road in March 2025 ended 4-2 in their favour, and they also won 1-0 at the City Ground in November 2024. In the last five meetings across competitions, Ipswich have not won once, with two draws, one of which came in the FA Cup.

Team news

Ipswich will be monitoring two doubts: S. Lukic, who is struggling with a groin injury, and J. Taylor, who is dealing with a knee problem. Forest face a more significant setback, with Igor Jesus set to miss the match through a calf injury. M. Gibbs-White and N. Savona are both doubtful, with Gibbs-White carrying an injury and Savona a knee problem.

Our prediction

PreviaXI’s model favours Ipswich, who have the stronger platform at home and a more productive recent scoring record. Forest have struggled to find goals on the road and have been short of attacking reliability, so the hosts should have the edge in midfield and in front of goal. Still, Forest’s solid record against Ipswich and their need for points could make this a close and open game, with both sides likely to find the net.

Ipswich 2-1 Nottingham Forest