Nottingham Forest vs Liverpool Prediction 22.02.2026 | Premier League

Nottingham Forest approach this demanding Sunday showdown lifted by a sensational start under new manager Vitor Pereira, whose reign began in spectacular fashion with a commanding 3-0 Europa League demolition of Fenerbahce in Istanbul just days ago.

Currently sitting 17th and hovering dangerously just three points above the relegation zone, Forest’s primary objective remains survival in the top flight. However, the so-called “new manager bounce” has already brought a visible sense of identity, tactical clarity, and attacking freedom to a side that previously looked short of confidence.

Although the Tricky Trees have struggled for consistency in the Premier League, failing to win any of their last three home fixtures, they can draw inspiration from one of the campaign’s biggest shocks — a stunning 3-0 victory over Liverpool at Anfield earlier this season, a performance that showcased their ability to trouble even the league’s elite.

Team selection, however, remains a concern. First-choice goalkeepers John Victor and Matz Sels are both sidelined through injury, meaning winter signing Stefan Ortega is set to deputize between the posts, while New Zealand centre-forward Chris Wood continues his recovery from knee surgery and remains unavailable.

Meanwhile, Liverpool prepare for their visit to the City Ground deeply entrenched in a fiercely contested race for Champions League qualification. Currently sitting sixth with 42 points, the Reds trail fourth-placed Manchester United by just three points, keeping their top-four ambitions firmly within reach.

Overall, Arne Slot’s men arrive in Nottingham in high spirits following a commanding 3-0 FA Cup demolition of Brighton & Hove Albion last weekend — a result that secured their place in the last 16 and set up a favorable tie against Premier League bottom side Wolverhampton Wanderers.

However, while their cup form remains impressive, Liverpool’s league consistency has been far less convincing. The Merseyside outfit have managed just two wins from their last six Premier League outings — a worrying trend they must urgently reverse to sustain their push for a Champions League spot.

In addition, head coach Arne Slot continues to grapple with significant selection issues, as Giovanni Leoni, Conor Bradley, Stefan Bajčetić, Wataru Endo, and summer signings Jeremie Frimpong and Alexander Isak all remain sidelined through injury, further testing the squad’s depth ahead of this crucial encounter.