Newcastle vs Nottingham Forest predictions for this Boxing Day affair at St James’ Park. St. James’ Park hosts the early Premier League kickoff on Boxing Day at 12:30 pm. Newcastle are in poor form and dealing with injuries. Read on for all our free predictions and betting tips.
Premier League | Gameweek 19 – Dec 26, 2023 at 12.30pm UK at St. James’ Park
Newcastle vs Nottingham Forest Predictions
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A Festive Football Showdown: Tactical Tussles and Potential Turnarounds at St James’ Park
Key Stats
– Nottingham Forest have suffered six defeats in their last seven league games.
– Newcastle’s Alexander Isak has emerged as a key attacking threat, averaging a goal every two games.
The Boxing Day clash at St James’ Park between Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest is poised to be a riveting encounter in the Premier League. Both sides, under the guidance of Eddie Howe and Nuno Espirito Santo, respectively, seek to amend their recent misfortunes. Newcastle, despite their commendable home form, have stumbled in recent outings, notably their defeat to Luton Town. Contrastingly, Nottingham Forest, still acclimatising to Santo’s leadership, suffered a narrow defeat to Bournemouth, underscoring their vulnerability, especially in away fixtures.
Analysing Newcastle United
Newcastle’s strength lies in their formidable home record, having secured seven consecutive Premier League victories at St James’ Park, underpinned by a robust defence conceding just one goal in this run. This defensive solidity, however, has been somewhat offset by a recent dip in form, with five losses in six games. The team’s offensive capabilities, spearheaded by Alexander Isak and supported by the likes of Miguel Almirón, are notable, averaging 2 goals per game. Yet, their recent struggles highlight a potential inconsistency in converting chances and maintaining defensive composure.
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Nottingham Forest’s Challenges
Nottingham Forest, under Santo’s nascent tenure, exhibits a blend of potential and unpredictability. Their defensive woes are evident, conceding an average of 1.8 goals per game. The team’s attacking output, primarily through Anthony Elanga and Chris Wood, shows promise but lacks consistency. The absence of Taiwo Awoniyi due to injury further compounds their attacking challenges. Moreover, their away record, particularly at a venue like St James’ Park, suggests an uphill battle for Forest.
Key Player Duels and Tactical Dynamics
The match’s outcome could hinge on key individual battles and tactical decisions. Newcastle’s midfield, especially the role of Bruno Guimarães, will be crucial in controlling the game’s tempo and creating scoring opportunities. Forest’s ability to counter this, possibly through the likes of Morgan Gibbs-White, will be vital. The defensive organisation of both teams, especially in the absence of key players like Jamaal Lascelles for Newcastle, will be under scrutiny.
Highly Opinionated Analysis of Managers and Strategies
Eddie Howe’s approach at Newcastle, characterised by a balanced yet aggressive style, has shown its effectiveness, particularly at home. However, his recent tactical decisions have been less inspiring, warranting criticism for a perceived lack of adaptability. On the other hand, Nuno Espirito Santo, although less experienced at Forest, shows promise but must rapidly address defensive frailties and find consistency in attack to steer the team away from relegation threats.
Decisive Areas and Gameplay Prediction
The midfield battle will likely be a decisive factor, with Newcastle’s ability to control possession and create chances being key. Forest’s response in midfield, possibly through counter-attacking strategies, could be critical. The gameplay is expected to be dynamic, with Newcastle asserting dominance and Forest relying on quick transitions to catch the home side off guard.
Expected Lineups and Commentary
- Newcastle United: Dubravka; Trippier, Schar, Botman, Livramento; Longstaff, Guimaraes, Joelinton; Almiron, Isak, Gordon. This lineup suggests an attacking approach, with emphasis on wing-play and midfield control.
- Nottingham Forest: Turner; Williams, Niakhate, Murillo, Toffolo; Mangala, Yates; Origi, Gibbs-White, Elanga; Wood. Forest’s lineup indicates a focus on defensive solidity with potential for rapid attacking transitions, especially through the flanks.
Predictions and Conclusion
In conclusion, Newcastle’s formidable home form, combined with Forest’s struggles, particularly in defence, set the stage for an intriguing encounter. While Newcastle is favoured, Forest’s unpredictable nature under Santo adds an element of uncertainty. This match is not just a clash of two teams but a testament to the tactical acumen of Howe and Santo, both seeking redemption from their recent setbacks.
Our Best Bets Rationale
1. Both Teams to Score and Win – Newcastle United
The rationale for this prediction is anchored in the contrasting forms and playing styles of the two teams. Newcastle United, under Eddie Howe, have developed a robust attacking setup, especially at St James’ Park. Their ability to create and convert chances is evident in their average of 2 goals per game. However, the Magpies’ recent defensive vulnerabilities, as shown in their last six matches where they conceded in five, hint at the possibility of them letting in a goal.
Nottingham Forest, though struggling at the bottom end of the table, have shown glimpses of attacking threat, mainly through players like Anthony Elanga and Chris Wood. Given their precarious position, Forest is likely to adopt an aggressive approach to seek much-needed points. This situation creates a conducive scenario for both teams to score. However, Newcastle’s superior attacking prowess and impressive home form make them the likely winners, hence the prediction of a Newcastle win with both teams scoring.
2. Correct Score Prediction – Newcastle United 3-1 Nottingham Forest
This prediction is based on a detailed analysis of both teams’ recent performances and their attacking and defensive records. Newcastle’s formidable attacking statistics, particularly at home, suggest they are capable of scoring multiple goals. Players like Alexander Isak and Miguel Almirón have been instrumental in Newcastle’s forward thrusts, which could overwhelm Forest’s defence, that has been conceding an average of 1.8 goals per game.
On the other hand, Forest’s offensive endeavours, led by Elanga and Wood, might find opportunities against a Newcastle defence that has shown recent lapses, having conceded in the majority of their last few games. However, the overall strength and form of Newcastle, especially in front of their home crowd, lead to a prediction of a clear 3-1 victory in favour of the Magpies.
3. Goalscorer Prediction – Alexander Isak to Score
Alexander Isak’s role as Newcastle’s leading striker and his proven goal-scoring ability are the foundations of this prediction. Isak has shown he can be a decisive figure in front of goal, blending well with Newcastle’s attacking midfielders. His ability to find space in the box and convert chances makes him a likely candidate to score in this fixture. Additionally, Forest’s defensive struggles, particularly in dealing with strikers who possess movement and physical presence, further bolster the likelihood of Isak finding the net.
4. Corner Prediction – Newcastle to have more corners, Total Corners: Over 9
Newcastle’s style of play, which often involves wide attacks and a high volume of crosses, typically results in a significant number of corners. Their average of 4.6 corners per game, combined with their expected dominance in possession and territorial advantage, especially at home, supports the prediction of them winning more corners. Furthermore, the nature of the game, with Forest potentially adopting a more defensive stance and Newcastle pressing forward, suggests a game rich in corner opportunities. Considering both teams’ styles and the expected game dynamics, predicting over 9 total corners seems a reasonable expectation.
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