In an exciting FA Cup third-round replay, League One team Blackpool is set to host Premier League side Nottingham Forest at Bloomfield Road.
The winner of this match will advance to the fourth round and potentially face West Ham United or Bristol City. Let’s take a closer look at this thrilling encounter.
Match Preview:
Nottingham Forest, who suffered a heavy defeat against Blackpool in the FA Cup third round last season, found themselves trailing by two goals in the reverse fixture just over a week ago.
However, they managed to salvage a 2-2 draw thanks to a late equalizer from Morgan Gibbs-White. Now, both teams are determined to secure a victory in the replay.
Team News:
Blackpool will be without injured players Jake Beesley and Kylian Kouassi. Matthew Pennington remains doubtful after missing the last five games due to concussion protocols.
Manager Neil Critchley might make changes in the wing-back positions, with Lawrence-Gabriel and Andy Lyons pushing for starting spots.
Nottingham Forest, on the other hand, will have six players away on international duty for the Africa Cup of Nations.
Taiwo Awoniyi and Felipe are sidelined due to injury, while Anthony Elanga and Divock Origi are doubtful. Manager Nuno Espirito Santo is likely to field a similar side to the one that played in the previous fixture.
Blackpool has shown promising form lately, with back-to-back victories against Burton Albion and Exeter City.
Their home record at Bloomfield Road has been excellent, winning nine out of their last ten matches in all competitions. Nottingham Forest, currently 15th in the Premier League table, have had a mixed run of form.
Possible Lineups:
Blackpool: (3-4-2-1)
Grimshaw;
Connolly, Casey, Husband;
Lawrence-Gabriel, Norburn, Morgan, Lyons;
Dembele, Hamilton;
Rhodes
Nottingham Forest: (4-2-3-1)
Vlachodimos;
Williams, Worrall, Murillo, Tavares;
Mangala, Yates;
Hudson-Odoi, Dominguez, Gibbs-White;
Wood
Prediction: Blackpool 1-2 Nottingham Forest
Blackpool has a recent history of causing upsets in the FA Cup, including their victory over Nottingham Forest last season. With their impressive home form and recent performances, they have every right to feel optimistic.
However, Nottingham Forest’s extended rest period and quality players might give them the edge in this match.
