Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the FA Cup match.
The fifth round of the FA Cup will be concluded by two teams from opposite ends of the Premier League table. Does that mean an easy victory for the favourite? Sometimes, even a division below isn't an obstacle for the underdog.
Nottingham Forest haven't won in their last three league games but still hold onto third place in the Premier League. Their competition is also inconsistent, making it difficult to avoid losses in such a congested fixture schedule. However, there is reason for optimism, as both of their defeats during this run were narrow losses away from home. At home, they are unbeaten in their last seven matches. A recent relative success was their 0:0 draw with second-placed Arsenal.
That series began with a narrow 1:0 victory over Ipswich Town. The win was modest, secured only by a penalty from Chris Wood early in the second half, and they failed to convert their 1.68 xG into more goals. Nottingham Forest’s approach rarely involves high-scoring, spectacle-filled games. They did dominate Brighton (7:0) and defeated Southampton (3:2), but six of the last eight matches (including this FA Cup tie) saw the total goals fall under 3.5.
Nottingham Forest vs Ipswich Town Prediction
Ipswich may be able to score twice, as Manchester United did in their recent encounter, but Manchester United's defensive errors played a big part in that. Nottingham Forest, on the other hand, is much less prone to such lapses, with goalkeeper Matz Sels ranking third in the Premier League for saves (85). The home side is unlikely to lose in regular time, and it’s unlikely there will be more than three goals.
