FOREST vs CHE: Chelsea’s 4-2-3-1 Lineup That Could Secure Victory Over Nottingham Forest

Chelsea travel to the City Ground on Sunday with a clear objective: defeat Nottingham Forest and secure their spot in next season’s UEFA Champions League. The stakes couldn’t be higher, but this won’t be a straightforward task. Chelsea have had a difficult time winning away from home in 2024, and Sunday presents another tough challenge.

While a draw might still be enough to qualify—depending on whether Manchester United can beat Aston Villa or if Newcastle drop points against Everton at home—that’s far from a guaranteed outcome. Chelsea can’t afford to leave their Champions League fate in the hands of others. The pressure is squarely on Enzo Maresca’s squad to deliver a result on their own terms. Making things tougher, they’ll have to do it without suspended striker Nicolas Jackson.

The head-to-head history between the sides adds more uncertainty. Although Forest have only beaten Chelsea once in their last seven league encounters, Chelsea have never recorded back-to-back away wins against them. It sets the stage for a high-stakes and unpredictable clash.

Just a couple of months ago, Chelsea seemed far from Champions League contention. But a strong post-international break run has completely changed the narrative, putting them in a commanding position as the season concludes.

They also have a chance to lift silverware later this month, with a Europa Conference League final showdown against Real Betis scheduled for May 29 in Poland. But before any thoughts turn to trophies, Chelsea must handle the job in Nottingham.

Chelsea’s Predicted Starting XI (4-2-3-1):
Sanchez; Moises Caicedo, Colwill, Chalobah, Cucurella; Romeo Lavia, Fernandez; Palmer, Sancho, Neto; Madueke.