Sunderland vs Nottingham Forest prediction 24.04.2026 | Premier League

Sunderland set out to survive this season, nothing more, nothing less. In that sense, the Black Cats have already done their job. A 15-point cushion above the drop zone gives them breathing space, though it can sometimes lead to a slight drop in intensity. That is hard to measure, but it shows in patches.

At the Stadium of Light, Sunderland were solid for most of the campaign. Losing just three of 16 home games sounds strong.

However, all three defeats coming in the last four there raises questions. Form has been mixed rather than poor. Wins over Newcastle and Tottenham stand out, while the 4-3 loss to Aston Villa last weekend showed both attacking threat and defensive gaps.

Brian Brobbey continues to lead the line effectively, with Granit Xhaka pulling strings deeper in midfield. Injuries to Mundle, Traoré, Angulo, and Ta Bi reduce options slightly.

Forest’s season has taken a different turn than expected. After reaching Europe last year, the Tricky Trees now find themselves in a relegation scrap.

Still, recent weeks have changed the mood. Vítor Pereira’s side are unbeaten in seven matches, picking up four wins along the way. That 4-1 victory over Burnley last weekend felt particularly convincing.

Away form has quietly improved too. Five matches without defeat on the road, including results at Spurs, suggest growing confidence.

Morgan Gibbs-White is central to that. His hat-trick last time out took him to 12 league goals, which is no small contribution.

Forest look more organised defensively as well, even if not flawless. Injuries to John Victor, Nicolò Savona, and Willy Boly remain a concern, especially in defence, where depth is already stretched.