Nottingham Forest host Aston Villa at the City Ground in a highly anticipated all-English Europa League semi-final first leg. Both teams are aiming for a place in the final in Istanbul, where they will face either Braga or Freiburg.
Forest come into this clash in strong form, extending their unbeaten run to eight matches after a dominant 5-0 win over Sunderland. Under Vitor Pereira, the team has improved significantly and now sits comfortably above the relegation zone in the Premier League. This marks their first European semi-final appearance since 1984, adding extra motivation for the hosts.
Their journey to the semi-finals has been impressive. Forest overcame Fenerbahce, Midtjylland, and Porto, narrowly defeating Porto 2-1 on aggregate in the quarter-finals. Despite struggling against Villa domestically this season, they have been solid at home and remain unbeaten in their last four matches against the Midlands side at the City Ground.
Aston Villa, meanwhile, enter the tie as slight favourites. Managed by Europa League specialist Unai Emery, who has won the competition four times, Villa are targeting their first European final since 1982. They have been one of the standout teams in the tournament, leading the scoring charts with 24 goals and boasting one of the best defensive records.
Villa finished second in the league phase and have looked dominant in the knockout rounds, comfortably beating Lille and Bologna. Their 7-1 aggregate victory over Bologna in the quarter-finals highlights their attacking strength. However, they come into this match following a narrow 1-0 loss to Fulham in the Premier League, where they remain in contention for a Champions League spot.
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Team News
Nottingham Forest have several injury concerns. Callum Hudson-Odoi, Murillo, Willy Boly, and others are unavailable, while Jair Cunha faces a late fitness test. Morato could feature in defence, and Stefan Ortega is likely to continue in goal. Morgan Gibbs-White is in excellent form, while Igor Jesus has been a key attacking threat in Europe.
Aston Villa are without Boubacar Kamara and Alysson, while Amadou Onana is doubtful. If unavailable, Lamare Bogarde may step into midfield alongside Youri Tielemans. Ollie Watkins is expected to lead the attack, supported by Morgan Rogers, John McGinn, and Emiliano Buendia. Defensive options could be boosted by the return of Tyrone Mings and Ian Maatsen.
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