NOTTINGHAM, England – Chelsea and Nottingham Forest ready to face each other on Sunday, May 25, 2025, at 4:00 PM BST in a crucial Premier League match that will determine their chances of qualifying for the UEFA Champions League. Both teams must win to secure a top-five finish, with the stakes incredibly high at the City Ground.
With only one win in their last ten visits to the Bridge, Chelsea coach Enzo Maresca made a strategic change to his lineup, bringing in Pedro Neto as a replacement for the suspended Nicolas Jackson. The Blues are looking for victory to ensure Champions League qualification, irrespective of other match outcomes.
“We know the importance of this match,” Maresca stated earlier this week. “We need to play with confidence and determination to secure our spot in Europe’s elite competition.”
Nottingham Forest, currently sitting in seventh place, should also be fired up. A win is necessary for them to have a shot at qualification, but they might still need help from other matches should they succeed. Captain Gibbs-White emphasized the team’s readiness: “We’re eager to show our fans what we can accomplish at home. This is our moment.”
The starting XI for Nottingham Forest includes Sels in goal, defended by Murillo, Sangaré, Williams, and Anderson. The midfield is captained by Gibbs-White, supported by Wood, Domínguez, and Elanga, with Milenković and Aina leading the attack. Chelsea’s formation features Rober Sanchez as goalkeeper with a back line of Reece James (c), Tosin Adarabioyo, Levi Colwill, and Marc Cucurella. Midfield includes Moisés Caicedo and Enzo Fernández, while the front four has Noni Madueke, Cole Palmer, Jadon Sancho, and Pedro Neto.
Both teams have shown mixed form recently. Nottingham Forest draws last week against Leicester and a loss to Man City weeks earlier weigh on their momentum. Chelsea, however, comes off a vital win against Manchester United, showcasing their resurgence with six wins in their last seven matches.
The refereeing crew for the match includes Anthony Taylor on the pitch, assisted by Peter Bankes as VAR. Fans can tune in via Sky Sports, NBC Sports Live, and other regional broadcasts.
If Nottingham wants to finish strong this season, the home advantage at the City Ground must play to their favor. Forest has struggled recently, going winless in their last three matches at home. Conversely, Chelsea’s current form presents a steep challenge for Nottingham.
The excitement surrounding this encounter is palpable as both sides understand that glory in the Premier League is on the line. It promises to be a gripping match as the idea of Champions League qualification looms heavily.
Do you have a news tip for NNN? Please email us at editor@nnn.ng
