The Case for Nottingham Forest: The City Ground is buzzing again as Sean Dyche has steadied the ship. Forest are unbeaten in their last three league games, including a solid 2-0 away win at Brentford. They hold the upper hand in possession metrics (48.9% vs 43.0%) and pass accuracy, suggesting they will control the tempo at home. With Palace in a slump, Forest’s disciplined structure and home advantage make them the team with the clearer identity right now.

The Case for Crystal Palace: While recent results have been poor (4 losses in 6), Palace remain a dangerous wounded animal. They possess superior aerial dominance (winning 18.7 duels per game compared to Forest’s 14.4), which is a key weapon against a Forest side weak at defending set-pieces. If Jean-Philippe Mateta and the runners can isolate Forest’s defenders in transition, Palace have the individual quality to snatch a result against the run of play.

The Verdict: It’s momentum versus desperation. Forest are building confidence and solidity under Dyche, while Palace are sliding but possess specific physical advantages. Will the City Ground roar Forest to another win, or will Palace’s aerial threat prove to be the equalizer in a tight contest?