Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the EFL Cup match.
Swansea City
Swansea City are a mid-table Championship side, but under Alan Sheehan, who took charge this spring, they are showing signs of progress. After losing the opener to Middlesbrough (0:1), Swansea went four games unbeaten (two wins, two draws). Only Hull City managed to score more than once against them in that run (2:2). Defensive stability has long been a feature: even last season, despite struggles, they conceded just 1.2 goals per game on average.
Nottingham Forest
Nottingham Forest are leaking goals. They’ve suffered back-to-back 0:3 defeats to West Ham United and Arsenal, and the managerial change — from Nuno Espirito Santo to Agne Postecoglou — has yet to yield improvement. Last season’s solid start is a distant memory, and Nottingham Forest are already sliding down to 15th in the table. With a Premier League clash against fellow strugglers Burnley just two days after this fixture, it’s questionable how seriously the team will treat the Cup.
Swansea City vs Nottingham Forest Prediction
Nottingham Forest may still edge through thanks to their individual quality, but it’s unlikely to be convincing. Swansea’s defence makes them a tough nut to crack, especially at home.
