West Ham United - Nottingham Forest FC ai prediction 06.01.2026 Premier League

Preview of the Premier League Clash: West Ham United vs Nottingham Forest

On Tuesday, January 6, 2026, West Ham United will host Nottingham Forest at the London Stadium in a pivotal Premier League encounter. As matchday 21 unfolds, both teams find themselves precariously positioned at the bottom end of the table, making this fixture a crucial one in their respective campaigns. West Ham United, sitting at 18th place with 14 points, are desperate for a revival under the guidance of Nuno Espírito Santo. With a record of three wins, five draws, and eleven defeats, the Hammers have struggled to find consistency this season. Their home form has been particularly concerning, having secured just two wins in ten outings.

Nottingham Forest, led by Sean Dyche, are just one place above West Ham in 17th position with 18 points. Despite their slightly better standing, Forest's away performances have been less than stellar, with only two victories in nine matches on the road. Their recent 0:2 home loss to Everton further highlighted the inconsistencies that have plagued their season. Both teams have a lot at stake, not just in terms of points, but also in boosting morale as they battle to climb out of the relegation zone.

The importance of this match cannot be overstated. With the transfer window open, both teams may see this as a turning point to either bolster their squads or galvanize their current players to deliver improved performances. The last encounter between these sides saw West Ham secure a convincing 3:0 away victory, adding an extra layer of intrigue to this matchup. Given their precarious positions, both teams will be keen to secure a positive result.

Our Betting Prediction for West Ham United vs Nottingham Forest

Our betting prediction for this fixture leans towards an away win for Nottingham Forest. Despite West Ham's previous victory over Forest, the current form and table standings suggest that Forest may edge this encounter. Sean Dyche's men have shown flashes of resilience, and their marginally superior points tally suggests they could capitalize on West Ham's defensive vulnerabilities. Additionally, we predict that both teams will score, given their recent track records of conceding goals.

Our tips

Total Goals

Over 2.5

There have been over 2.5 goals scored in 3 of West Ham United's last 5 matches.

There have been over 2.5 goals scored in 3 of Nottingham Forest's last 5 matches.

Top odds at bet365

Double Chance

12

West Ham United have won or lost 3 of their last 5 matches.

Nottingham Forest have won or lost 5 of their last 5 matches.

Top odds at Betway

Total Goals

Under 3.5

There have been under 3.5 goals scored in 3 of West Ham United's last 5 matches.

There have been under 3.5 goals scored in 5 of Nottingham Forest's last 5 matches.

Top odds at Betway

AI Prediction for the Match West Ham United vs Nottingham Forest

The AI prediction for this Premier League clash favors Nottingham Forest to triumph with a narrow victory. Based on statistical analysis, a 2:1 scoreline in favor of Nottingham Forest seems plausible. The AI forecast considers Nottingham's slightly better form and West Ham's ongoing defensive struggles, making Forest the likely victors in this contest.

West Ham United Performance Check

Under the management of Nuno Espírito Santo, West Ham United's performance this season has been underwhelming. Currently sitting in the relegation zone, their tally of 21 goals scored versus 38 conceded reflects a team struggling at both ends of the pitch. Despite the efforts of Espírito Santo to instill discipline and structure, the Hammers have been unable to consistently convert chances into points. Their recent 2:2 draw against Brighton & Hove Albion showed glimpses of potential, but defensive frailties remain a concern.

How is the Current Performance of Nottingham Forest?

Managed by Sean Dyche, Nottingham Forest have had a challenging season but remain slightly better placed than their upcoming opponents, West Ham. With five wins and three draws, Forest have shown they can be competitive, but their goal difference of 18:30 highlights a need for more attacking potency and defensive solidity. Their recent form, which includes a home defeat to Everton, underscores the need for improved consistency if they are to steer clear of the relegation battle.

Last Direct Match

The last direct meeting between these two sides resulted in a decisive 3:0 victory for West Ham United away from home. This result will surely be on the minds of both sets of players as they prepare for Tuesday's encounter.

Head-to-head Last Direct Meetings

In the last five meetings between West Ham United and Nottingham Forest across all competitions, Forest holds a slight edge with three wins compared to West Ham's two victories. This head-to-head record suggests that Forest may have the psychological advantage heading into this match.

Performance Last 5 Matches

West Ham United's recent form is concerning, with two draws and three defeats in their last five matches. Conversely, Nottingham Forest have secured two wins and suffered three losses in the same period, indicating slightly better form.

Performance

West Ham United

Last games

West Ham United performance of the last 5 home matches

Victories

20%

Over 2.5

60%

Nottingham Forest

Last games

Nottingham Forest performance of the last 5 away matches

Victories

60%

Over 2.5

60%

Last Match Results: West Ham United and Nottingham Forest

West Ham United's last outing yielded a 2:2 draw against Brighton & Hove Albion, a match that showcased both their attacking capabilities and defensive vulnerabilities. Meanwhile, Nottingham Forest's last match ended in a disappointing 0:2 home defeat to Everton, highlighting their ongoing challenges.

Best Odds and Our Betting Tip

For those looking to place a bet on this fixture, the best odds for a Nottingham Forest win are available at Betika with an odd of 2.44. If you're considering a draw, Betwinner offers odds of 3.64, while a West Ham win is priced at 3.09. Additionally, for those who believe both teams will score, Gbets offers odds of 1.70. Our recommendation leans towards a Forest victory, and we suggest taking advantage of the odds available from the best betting sites in our bookmaker comparison.

Conclusion on the Match

In conclusion, as both teams grapple with the threat of relegation, Nottingham Forest's slightly better form and recent head-to-head advantage make them the favorites to secure a win. However, West Ham will be motivated to turn their fortunes around, especially given their need for points. Expect a competitive match with both teams finding the net, but Forest emerging as the likely victors.

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