Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the English Premier League match.
Nottingham Forest drew in the last round, but considering it was against Liverpool, it can be deemed a success. If they share points again this time, it would be seen as a failure.
Nottingham Forest
That encounter with the league leaders was also at the City Ground, and Nottingham managed to withstand the onslaught. When the excellent goalkeeper Matz Sels could do no more, defender Ola Aina was on hand to clear off the line. However, Nottingham's own goal was created from a counterattack finished off by Chris Wood. The New Zealander now has 13 goals this Premier League season — as many as Southampton have scored collectively.
Southampton
Southampton's 13th goal came in the last round against Manchester United (1:3), with an own goal helping them along. They failed to score for so long before Manchester United began to dismantle them in the final stages. Their 1.54 xG further increased their underachievement in potential chances compared to actual goals (-13.02), the worst in the league. The third goal conceded to Manchester United was the result of a Southampton defender's lapse, leaving the goalkeeper helpless.
Nottingham Forest vs Southampton Prediction
Southampton scored against the Mancunians but failed to find the net in six of their last eight Premier League matches. Nottingham Forest conceded to Liverpool but had kept a clean sheet in the previous five matches across all competitions. There is a significant chance that Nottingham Forest will not only win but also do so without conceding.
