Wolves vs Nottingham Forest: A Clash of Resurgence

In just three matches, Vitor Pereira has transformed Wolverhampton Wanderers. Securing seven points from a possible nine, the new manager has reignited hope at Molineux. Several players have stepped up significantly since the managerial change, lifting Wolves off the brink of relegation and into safer territory. Not long ago, the team seemed destined for disaster, but Pereira’s impact has been swift and effective.

However, Monday’s game presents a significant challenge: a face-off against a former Wolves manager, Nuno Espírito Santo, who is enjoying a remarkable season at the helm of Nottingham Forest. While Forest were tipped for a relegation battle before the season started, they now find themselves third in the Premier League table, entering this match with five consecutive wins.

To make matters tougher for Wolves, they’ll be without their star player for this clash.

Key Absence but a Silver Lining

Matheus Cunha’s suspension looms large. Following a heated 1-2 loss against Ipswich, Cunha was penalized for elbowing a security guard and damaging another’s glasses. Wolves will now have to cope without their top scorer for two games. However, there’s a silver lining: the suspension comes after he played pivotal roles in victories against Leicester and Manchester United and contributed before being subbed off injured in the 2-2 draw against Tottenham. Additionally, he was already doubtful for the Forest clash due to fitness concerns.

This timing means Cunha will also miss a less-critical FA Cup match against Bristol City, a game he likely would have been rested for regardless.

Nuno’s Redemption at Forest

Nuno Espírito Santo has revitalized Nottingham Forest. Dismissed by Tottenham and considered a managerial casualty not long ago, Nuno took over a struggling Forest side last December and saved them from relegation. This season, he’s turned the underdogs into contenders, guiding them to second place by the turn of the year.

While few expect Forest to maintain their position, comparisons to Leicester’s fairy-tale title-winning season in 2016 are beginning to emerge. Forest’s immediate priority in January will be retaining their key players amidst transfer window interest. Defenders Ola Aina and Nikola Milenkovic are among those rumored to be attracting attention, but the club appears confident in holding onto their assets.

Team News and Match Preview

Wolves’ injury woes extend beyond Cunha, with Boubacar Traoré, Toti Gomes, Mario Lemina, and Pablo Sarabia all sidelined. A win on Monday would mark a remarkable start for Vitor Pereira, potentially eclipsing the points tally of predecessor Gary O’Neil’s last 19 matches. Wolves also hold a strong historical record against Forest, losing just one of their previous 12 Premier League meetings.

Forest, meanwhile, are riding a high not seen since the late 1980s under Brian Clough. Five consecutive league wins have propelled them into the top four for the first time at this stage of the season since the 80s. With Callum Hudson-Odoi and Murillo returning, only Danilo and Ibrahim Sangaré remain unavailable due to injuries.

Odds and Prediction

Fixture: Wolves vs Nottingham Forest
Venue: Molineux, Monday, 9:00 PM
Odds (via Betsson): Wolves 3.40 – Draw 3.35 – Forest 2.28

The reverse fixture in August ended 1-1, with both goals scored within the opening 12 minutes. Five of the last six meetings between these sides have featured fewer than three goals, with the last four ending in draws. Both teams are in excellent form, and another tightly contested match seems likely. Backing a draw at 3.35 is a tempting choice for punters.

Conclusion

Monday’s game promises to be a fascinating encounter between two resurgent sides. Wolves’ new-found form under Pereira meets Forest’s incredible momentum under Nuno, setting the stage for a thrilling Premier League clash.

The Tipster