Match preview

Sunderland head into this clash in their usual unpredictable style: dangerous going forward, yet vulnerable at the back. Their recent 3-4 loss to Aston Villa perfectly summed it up — plenty of attacking threat, but costly defensive lapses at key moments.

At the Stadium of Light, the Black Cats are still a tricky opponent, though their once-solid home form has dipped. With just one win in their last four home games, there are clear concerns for a side still chasing a strong finish and knowing how vital every point is now.

Nottingham Forest arrive in a far more confident mood. They’ve put together a seven-match unbeaten run in all competitions, highlighted by an impressive 3-0 win over Tottenham. This suggests a team that has found balance and knows how to manage games, even without dominating possession.

Away form remains a slight concern for Forest, but this kind of matchup suits them. They are comfortable soaking up pressure early on, then exploiting spaces later in the game as opponents lose structure.

Probable lineups

Sunderland: Ruufs, Ballard, O'Nien, Mandava, Mukiele, Xhaka, Sadiki, Le Fée, Diarra, Rigg, Brobbey

Nottingham Forest: Sels, Milenković, Morato, Aina, Williams, Sangaré, Anderson, Hutchinson, Gibbs-White, Bakwa, Wood

Match facts and head-to-head

The last five meetings between these teams have all produced no more than two goals.

Sunderland have won five of their last eight encounters, losing just once.

Forest come into this match after a 3-0 win over Tottenham, while Sunderland lost 3-4 to Aston Villa.

Live Sunderland vs Forest - English Premier League