Both teams are in a deep crisis, languishing in the relegation zone. West Ham are in disastrous form, losing four of their last five Premier League matches and conceding 12 goals. Nottingham Forest are also suffering losses, but appear slightly more consistent in attack, as evidenced by their 3-0 victory over Tottenham. However, their defense is extremely fragile.
Their head-to-head record points to a high-scoring game. In their last three Premier League encounters, the teams have traded crushing victories, and West Ham won their first meeting this season 3-0. This suggests a high probability of defensive errors and striking attacking moments.
The pressure of fighting for survival, the weak defense of both teams, and their penchant for high-scoring encounters create ideal conditions for goal-scoring. Nottingham Forest have scored very few goals this season (19 in 20 matches), but even at home, they are conceding an average of over two goals. Each team is expected to score at least one goal.
