Sturm Graz vs Nottingham Forest Prediction and Analysis (6 Nov 2025, 23:15 pm)
When host on Thursday night in the , the fixture carries more than three points. The Austrian side are fighting to keep their European hopes alive, while Forest seek to build momentum and prove their continental credentials. With recent performances under the spotlight, both clubs face a defining moment.
Latest Team News & Line-Up Notes for Sturm Graz and Nottingham Forest
Sturm Graz are entering this match in a difficult position. After three group matches they have collected just one win and face a uphill climb to advance. Injuries and suspension details remain subtle, but the squad is thin in depth and fatigue appears visible in their recent domestic outings. Manager Jürgen Säumel is expected to persist with a 4-2-3-1 formation, prioritising compact defence and quick transitions up front.
Nottingham Forest, meanwhile, arrive in somewhat better shape. They have secured one win and one draw in three group matches, giving them a slight cushion. Key players such as Morgan Gibbs-White and Igor Jesus have contributed decisively in attack. However, the travelling demands and squad rotation will test their consistency. Head coach Sean Dyche may stick to a 4-3-3 shape, with fresh legs in midfield and a focus on defensive solidity.
Head-to-Head Comparison: Sturm Graz vs Nottingham Forest
Historically this contest holds little precedent. Their most recent Europa League meeting resulted in a draw, which means neither side carries a clear psychological edge. Without a long sequence of past clashes, the matchup becomes more about current form than tradition.
Form, Statistics & Group Standings Overview
In the group standings, Nottingham Forest sit on four points from three matches, with a goal-difference of +1. Sturm Graz have three points and a goal-difference of -2. In their last three European matches, Forest have shown greater control and scoring threat, while Sturm have struggled to convert dominance into results. At home, the Austrian side have averaged around 1.4 goals scored per match during the season but concede close to one per game—an imbalance that their visitors may exploit. Forest’s away European form suggests about 1.2 goals scored and roughly 1.3 conceded per match, indicating they are not invulnerable but have enough fire-power to take advantage.
Tactical Analysis: Formations, Playing Styles & Key Duels
Sturm Graz will likely arrange themselves in a 4-2-3-1 formation, seeking to control the midfield and use their wide attacking players to unsettle Nottingham’s back line. Full-backs will have licence to support attacks, but that leaves central spaces open to exploitation. The duel to monitor: Sturm’s attacking number ten contesting Nottingham’s holding midfield—control of this zone could decide the momentum.
Nottingham Forest are expected to deploy a 4-3-3 system, emphasising structure and flexibility. Their wide forwards will seek to isolate Sturm’s full-backs, while the midfield trio must ensure defensive balance and effective transitions. One key duel: Forest’s winger against Sturm’s full-back. If Nottingham can exploit that flank they may create high-quality chances and dictate the tempo.
Prediction & Forecast for Sturm Graz vs Nottingham Forest
Given the statistics and current trajectories, Nottingham Forest hold a modest edge. Their European form and slight advantage in the group table support this. Sturm Graz’s home setting helps, but their defensive fragility undermines full confidence. My forecast: Sturm Graz 1 – 2 Nottingham Forest. I anticipate goals from both sides but a victory for the visitors.
Suggested betting tips: Over 2.5 Goals ✔ | Both Teams to Score – Yes ✔ | Nottingham Forest to Win (value) ✔
Summary: Sturm Graz vs Nottingham Forest Match Preview
This match offers a significant opportunity for both clubs: Sturm Graz to reignite their European campaign; Nottingham Forest to consolidate their position and extend momentum. The head-to-head may not favour either side explicitly but the underlying trends lean towards the visiting team. Expect a competitive contest with Nottingham edging a tight win, though Sturm will make it far from straightforward.