BETTING GUIDE: Notts County vs Nottingham Forest, Match Preview, Team News and Prediction

Nottinghamshire’s historic local rivalry is set to be briefly reignited on Saturday afternoon as newly promoted League One side Notts County hosts Premier League neighbors Nottingham Forest at Meadow Lane.

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While only a preseason friendly, meetings between these two Trentside rivals—whose stadiums are separated by a mere 300 yards—never lack competitive edge or local passion.

For Nottingham Forest, this fixture marks the beginning of their summer schedule and the dawn of a new era under Oliver Glasner, who took over following Vitor Pereira's dismissal.

Notts County, meanwhile, are further ahead in their preparations, having already played three warm-up fixtures. Both teams will be eager to use this clash to test new signings, build match fitness, and secure bragging rights.

Kick-off: 5:00 PM (Kenyan Time), Saturday

Venue: Meadow Lane

Group: Club Friendlies

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Qualification implications: None. This is a pre-season friendly focused on building match fitness and tactical familiarity ahead of the 2026-27 campaign.

Form Guide

Notts County

❌ Loss vs Randers (1-3)

❌ Loss vs Viborg (0-2)

✅ Win vs Alfreton Town (5-0)

Head-to-Head (Last Five Meetings)

❌ Notts County 0-1 Nottingham Forest (2023 Friendly)

➖ Notts County 2-2 Nottingham Forest (2022 Friendly)

❌ Notts County 0-2 Nottingham Forest (2017 Friendly)

❌ Notts County 1-2 Nottingham Forest (2016 Friendly)

➖ Notts County 2-2 Nottingham Forest (2012 Friendly)

Team News

Notts County

🟡 Nick Tsaroulla – Knock (subject to fitness assessment).

🟡 Matt Palmer – Knock (subject to fitness assessment).

🟡 Jodi Jones – Illness (subject to fitness assessment).

Nottingham Forest

❌ Ibrahim Sangare – Extended leave following World Cup duties (out).

❌ Dan Ndoye – Extended leave following World Cup duties (out).

❌ Chris Wood – Extended leave following World Cup duties (out).

❌ Callum Hudson-Odoi – Recovering from late-season surgery (out).

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Player to Watch: Emile Acquah (Notts County)

New signing Emile Acquah is expected to lead the line for Notts County as he looks to establish himself in Martin Paterson’s plans. Having completed an undisclosed-fee switch from the Scottish side Dundee, the physical forward offers a robust focal point to County's attack. Acquah's aerial presence and hold-up play will be crucial in testing a Forest defense that is still adapting to Oliver Glasner's tactical demands. If the home side can supply him with quality service, he has the physical profile to disrupt the Premier League opposition and make an instant impact for his new club.

Best Bets

🟢 Safe Bet (Low Risk)

Over 1.5 Goals

🟡 Smart Bet (Medium Risk)

Both Teams to Score – Yes

🔴 Long Shot (High Risk)

Correct Score: 2-2 Draw

Disclaimer: Whilst we do our utmost to offer good advice and information, we cannot be held responsible for any loss that may be incurred as a result of gambling