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The English Premier League continues with an important fixture at the London Stadium as West Ham United prepare to host Nottingham Forest. The match is scheduled to take place on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, with a scheduled kickoff time of 19:45 local time. This mid-week encounter sees two sides looking to secure vital points as the season enters a critical winter period. Both teams have shown fluctuating form recently, making this tactical battle at the London Stadium a significant event for their respective league ambitions.
| Stats | West Ham United | Nottingham Forest |
| League Position | 11th | 4th |
| Total Goals Scored | 24 | 28 |
| Total Goals Conceded | 27 | 17 |
| Home Record (W-D-L) | Â 4-2-3 | N/A |
| Away Record (W-D-L) | – | 5-3-1 |
| Average Goals Per Game | 1.33 | 1.56 |
Tactical & Technical Analysis
This fixture presents a fascinating contrast in styles and current standing. Nottingham Forest enters the match as one of the season’s surprise packages, currently occupying a top-four position. Their success has been built on a formidable defensive foundation, having conceded only 17 goals in 18 matches, which is the second-best record in the division. West Ham United, currently positioned in mid-table, have struggled for consistency but remain a dangerous side when playing in front of their home supporters.
The tactical battle is expected to involve West Ham attempting to break down a resilient Forest backline. The visitors have been particularly effective on the road, suffering only a single defeat in nine away matches. Their ability to absorb pressure and hit teams on the counter-attack has been a hallmark of their tactical setup this season. West Ham will need to balance their offensive ambitions with defensive caution to avoid being caught by the clinical transitions that have defined Forest’s recent performances.
Squad Analysis and Predicted Lineups
Both managers are dealing with significant availability issues due to injuries and the departure of players for the Africa Cup of Nations. These absences will test the squad depth of both organizations and may lead to tactical adjustments.
West Ham United Squad Overview
The Hammers are expected to deploy a 4-2-3-1 formation. Areola is likely to start in goal, protected by a defensive line of Wan-Bissaka, Todibo, Kilman, and Emerson. The midfield pivot should consist of Rodriguez and Soler, providing a platform for the attacking trio of Bowen, Paqueta, and Summerville. Fullkrug is expected to lead the line as the lone striker.
Nottingham Forest Squad Overview
Nottingham Forest are predicted to mirror the 4-2-3-1 setup. Sels will likely occupy the position between the posts. The defense is expected to feature Moreno, Murillo, Milenkovic, and Williams. The central midfield partnership of Anderson and Dominguez will be crucial in winning the physical battle, while Hudson-Odoi, Gibbs-White, and Elanga support Wood in the attacking third.
Key Betting Options and Top Picks
The betting markets indicate a very close contest, with West Ham United listed as slight favorites due to home advantage. The Draw No Bet market for the home side is priced at -125 (1.80), while Nottingham Forest is available at +100 (2.00) in the same market.
Statistically, Nottingham Forest’s defensive record suggests a low-scoring affair could be on the cards. However, West Ham’s home matches have often seen goals at both ends. The Under 2.5 Goals market is currently priced at -118 (1.85), reflecting the expectation of a tight tactical encounter. Chris Wood remains the primary goal threat for the visitors, having maintained impressive scoring form throughout the campaign.
Final Betting Tip: Nottingham Forest +0.25 (Asian Handicap) Odds: -111 (1.90)
Wrap Up
Given Nottingham Forest’s exceptional away record and their defensive discipline, they are well-positioned to take something from this match. While West Ham United possesses individual quality in players like Jarrod Bowen and Lucas Paqueta, breaking down a team that has only conceded 17 goals this season will be a difficult task.
The visitors have proven they can compete with the league’s elite and their confidence levels will be high given their top-four standing. The primary recommendation is to back the visitors in the handicap market, as their organization and efficiency on the counter-attack make them a formidable opponent away from home.
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