Get ready for a crucial Premier League showdown as Nottingham Forest hosts Chelsea on Sunday, May 25, 2025. The match kicks off at 17:00 CEST in Italy, Germany, France and Spain, with a 16:00 BST start in the UK. With the title race and relegation battles already settled, this fixture at the City Ground is the final hurdle for both sides in their push for UEFA Champions League qualification.
This encounter marks the end of an enthralling campaign where European spots are the ultimate prize. Both Nottingham Forest and Chelsea will be desperate for a positive result, making this clash a high-stakes affair rich with drama and significance.
How are both teams coming into this?
Nottingham Forest have enjoyed a mixed season under their current management, showing flashes of brilliance at home but lacking consistency on the road. Their final push for a top-four finish has been hampered by dropped points against lower-ranked opponents, putting extra pressure on this last-day fixture.
Chelsea, meanwhile, have rediscovered some form in recent weeks after a challenging campaign. A string of victories has reignited hope of Champions League football next season, and they head into this match with palpable momentum. Confidence is high, but the Blues know that one slip-up at the City Ground could be costly.
Our forecast
Expectation is for a cagey first half as both teams feel each other out, knowing the stakes. Nottingham Forest will look to capitalize on home advantage and disrupt Chelsea’s rhythm with an energetic start. However, their tendency to concede early goals could invite pressure if they aren’t carefully organised at the back.
Chelsea are likely to dominate possession and probe for openings, relying on quick transitions and set-piece threats. If they manage to break the deadlock before half-time, that could force Forest to open up, creating more space on the counter. We forecast a tight encounter, with Chelsea edging a narrow victory or a low-scoring draw if Forest can hold firm.
Best odds
Bet365: Nottingham Forest 3.20, Draw 3.50, Chelsea 2.25
William Hill: Nottingham Forest 3.30, Draw 3.60, Chelsea 2.30
Betfair: Nottingham Forest 3.25, Draw 3.55, Chelsea 2.28
