Tottenham vs Nottingham Forest: Predicted Lineups, Team News, and In-Depth Preview 

Football fans around the world eagerly anticipate every Premier League clash, and the upcoming encounter between Tottenham Hotspur vs Nottingham Forest on March 22, 2026, at the iconic Tottenham Hotspur Stadium promises to deliver thrills, tactical intrigue, and potentially pivotal moments in the race for European spots or survival. Tottenham, under the guidance of manager Thomas Frank, battle through a turbulent season marked by flashes of brilliance amid a crippling injury crisis that has tested their squad depth to the limits, while Nottingham Forest, led by Sean Dyche, fight tooth and nail to climb out of the lower reaches of the table after a gritty but inconsistent campaign. 

This match arrives at a crucial juncture, with both teams desperate for points to achieve their respective goals—Spurs aiming to reignite their push for a top-six finish, and Forest seeking to distance themselves from the relegation zone. Moreover, the historical context adds layers of excitement, as these two clubs have produced memorable battles over the years, from high-scoring affairs to tense defensive duels, making this fixture a must-watch for neutrals and partisans alike. As we delve deeper into the preview, we explore recent form, key injuries, predicted lineups, tactical setups, standout players, and much more, ensuring you have all the latest information to fully appreciate what could be a defining game in the 2025/2026 season.

Match Overview and Why It Matters

Tottenham Hotspur host Nottingham Forest in what shapes up as a fascinating Premier League matchup, kicking off at 3:15 PM local time on March 22, 2026, in London. Fans pack the state-of-the-art Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, known for its electric atmosphere and capacity of over 62,000, creating an intimidating environment for visiting teams like Forest, who often struggle on the road against top-half opposition. 

This game carries significant weight for both sides; Tottenham, currently languishing in 14th place with 28 points from 23 matches as of late January 2026, urgently need victories to salvage their season and climb toward European qualification, especially after a disappointing run that includes seven wins, seven draws, and nine losses. 

Nottingham Forest, sitting precariously in 17th with 25 points from the same number of games—boasting seven wins, four draws, and 12 losses—face the constant threat of relegation, and a positive result here could provide the momentum needed to pull clear of the bottom three. Additionally, the fixture highlights contrasting styles: Spurs favor a possession-based, attacking approach under Frank, emphasizing quick transitions and creative midfield play, whereas Dyche’s Forest prioritize defensive solidity, counter-attacks, and set-piece prowess to grind out results against stronger opponents. 

Historically, Tottenham dominate this rivalry, but Forest’s recent upset victories, such as their 3-0 thrashing of Spurs in December 2025, remind everyone that underdogs can strike decisively. Therefore, this clash not only influences the league standings but also tests managerial philosophies, player resilience, and team morale in a high-stakes environment.

Recent Form and Current Standings

As the Premier League season progresses into its latter stages by March 2026, the table reveals a fiercely competitive landscape where Arsenal lead with 50 points, closely followed by Manchester City and Aston Villa both on 46 points, setting up an enthralling title race. Manchester United occupy fourth with 38 points, Chelsea fifth with 37, and Liverpool sixth with 36, underscoring the tight battle for Champions League spots. 

Lower down, teams like Tottenham in 14th and Nottingham Forest in 17th find themselves in precarious positions, with the relegation scrap intensifying as Sunderland, Leeds United, and Burnley hover near the bottom. Recent results shape the narrative heading into this fixture; moreover, individual performances and tactical adjustments play crucial roles in determining outcomes. Fans analyze every match to predict trends, and this game’s buildup intensifies scrutiny on both squads’ form over the past five to ten games.

Tottenham Hotspur’s Recent Form

Tottenham Hotspur endure a challenging period, with their form reflecting the toll of an extensive injury list that disrupts consistency and forces frequent lineup changes. In their last five Premier League outings as of late January 2026, Spurs secure two wins, one draw, and suffer two losses, generating a mixed bag of results that includes a hard-fought 2-2 draw against Burnley where Cristian Romero scores a late equalizer, highlighting their never-say-die attitude despite adversity. Earlier, they claim a vital 2-0 victory over Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League, boosting morale, but domestic struggles persist, such as a defeat to West Ham that exposes defensive vulnerabilities. 

Key contributors like Randal Kolo Muani and Xavi Simons shine in attack, combining for goals and assists, while the midfield duo of Archie Gray and João Palhinha provides stability when fit. However, the absence of creative forces like James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski stifles their fluidity, leading to fewer scoring opportunities—Tottenham average 1.4 goals per game recently, a dip from their earlier season highs. Defensively, they concede 1.6 goals on average, with Micky van de Ven’s occasional absences weakening the backline. 

Thomas Frank actively rotates players to manage fatigue, emphasizing high pressing and quick counters, but the injury crisis forces reliance on youngsters like Mathys Tel and Djed Spence, who step up admirably but lack experience in crunch moments. Overall, Spurs’ form suggests potential for a turnaround if key players return by March, positioning them to exploit Forest’s weaknesses and push for a top-10 finish.

Nottingham Forest’s Recent Form

Nottingham Forest display resilience in their recent performances, battling through injuries and a demanding schedule to accumulate points that keep them just above the relegation zone. 

Over their past five league matches as of January 2026, Forest achieve one win, two draws, and two losses, including a gritty 2-0 victory over Brentford that showcases their defensive organization and counter-attacking threat, as well as a 0-0 draw with Arsenal that frustrates the league leaders. However, defeats to Aston Villa and other mid-table sides reveal inconsistencies, particularly in maintaining clean sheets—they concede 1.8 goals per game lately, often from set pieces or individual errors. 

Offensively, they manage 1.2 goals per outing, relying on the creativity of Morgan Gibbs-White and the finishing of Taiwo Awoniyi when available. Sean Dyche instills a no-nonsense approach, focusing on compact defending and rapid transitions, which suits players like Ibrahim Sangaré in midfield and Callum Hudson-Odoi on the wing. 

The team’s Europa League commitments add strain, with upcoming ties like against Ferencváros testing squad depth, but recent returns like Ryan Yates bolster the engine room. Despite the loss of key striker Chris Wood for the season, Forest adapt by integrating loanees such as Igor Jesus, who provides a physical presence up front. This form indicates Forest enter the Tottenham clash as underdogs but with the capability to frustrate and nick a result through disciplined play.

Team News and Injury Updates

Injuries plague both Tottenham and Nottingham Forest heading into March 2026, forcing managers to adapt strategies and rely on squad depth. Thomas Frank contends with a mounting crisis at Spurs, where multiple key players sidelined disrupt team balance, while Sean Dyche navigates absences in Forest’s attack and defense, compelling creative solutions. Up-to-date team news reveals the extent of these issues, influencing predicted lineups and match dynamics. Furthermore, international duties and loan restrictions complicate selections, adding another layer of complexity.

Tottenham Hotspur’s Injury Situation

Tottenham Hotspur grapple with a severe injury crisis in January 2026, with up to eight key players unavailable, severely impacting their performance across competitions. James Maddison, the creative heartbeat of the midfield, remains out long-term with a cruciate ligament tear from preseason, expected back only in June 2026, robbing the team of his vision and set-piece expertise. 

Lucas Bergvall undergoes ankle surgery after a recent knock, potentially sidelining him for an extended period, while Pedro Porro’s hamstring injury rules him out for about four weeks, meaning he misses crucial games including this one if recovery delays occur. Micky van de Ven nurses a minor knock but could return soon, providing much-needed defensive stability alongside Cristian Romero. 

Richarlison, a vital forward option, deals with a hamstring issue that keeps him out until late February or early March, limiting attacking options. Dejan Kulusevski and Mohammed Kudus also recover from hamstring and quad injuries respectively, with their availability by March uncertain but hopeful. Rodrigo Bentancur’s hamstring problem from January adds to midfield woes, though João Palhinha and Pape Matar Sarr offer alternatives when fit. Ben Davies’ ankle injury extends his absence until April, further thinning the backline. Thomas Frank confirms positive updates on Destiny Udogie, Xavi Simons, and Dominic Solanke, who return from minor issues, boosting the squad. Additionally, a car crash involving Randal Kolo Muani and Wilson Odobert fortunately results in no serious harm, ensuring their participation. This situation compels Frank to integrate youth prospects like Dane Scarlett and rely on versatile players like Djed Spence to fill gaps.

Nottingham Forest’s Injury Situation

Nottingham Forest face their own injury challenges in January 2026, particularly in goal and attack, which could persist into March if recoveries falter. Goalkeeper John Victor sustains a severe knee injury against Aston Villa, ruling him out for the entire season after surgery, forcing reliance on Matz Sels as the primary shot-stopper. Striker Chris Wood, a key goal-scorer, undergoes knee surgery and potentially misses the rest of the campaign, a devastating blow to their offensive output given his leadership and finishing prowess. 

Defender Nicolo Savona assesses a knee injury, making him unlikely for upcoming fixtures and possibly this match if complications arise. Igor Jesus emerges as a doubt with a minor injury from the Arsenal draw, impacting forward options alongside Taiwo Awoniyi’s occasional fitness issues. Callum Hudson-Odoi recovers from a knock sustained in mid-January, while Dan Ndoye deals with a similar issue, both expected back by late January but monitored closely. Ryan Yates returns from a hamstring problem, strengthening midfield, and Willy Boly absents due to international duty but should be available by March. 

Loan restrictions affect players like Ola Aina (from Arsenal) and Igor Jesus (from Napoli), but they integrate well when eligible. Sean Dyche adapts by promoting youngsters like Zach Abbott and emphasizing the roles of Morgan Gibbs-White and Ibrahim Sangaré to compensate for absences.

Predicted Lineups for the Clash

Predicted lineups for the March 22, 2026, match factor in current injuries, recoveries, and tactical preferences, offering insights into how both teams might approach the game. Assuming standard recoveries by then, Thomas Frank opts for a 4-2-3-1 formation to balance attack and defense, while Sean Dyche sticks with a 4-2-3-1 setup focused on countering Tottenham’s possession dominance. These predictions draw from recent trends and squad availability.

Tottenham Hotspur’s Predicted Starting XI

Tottenham Hotspur line up in a 4-2-3-1 formation: Guglielmo Vicario guards the goal, providing reliable shot-stopping and distribution from the back; Djed Spence starts at right-back, offering pace and overlapping runs in Porro’s absence; Cristian Romero and Kevin Danso partner in central defense, with Romero’s leadership and Danso’s aerial prowess forming a solid duo; Destiny Udogie occupies left-back, bringing energy and defensive tenacity after his recovery. 

In midfield, João Palhinha and Archie Gray anchor the base, where Palhinha’s tackling and Gray’s passing control tempo; ahead of them, Wilson Odobert on the right wing, Pape Matar Sarr in the central attacking role, and Xavi Simons on the left provide creativity and flair, with Simons’ dribbling and vision key to unlocking defenses. Randal Kolo Muani leads the line as striker, using his speed and finishing to exploit spaces. Substitutes include Antonin Kinsky, Ben Davies (if recovered), Mathys Tel, Dominic Solanke, Mohammed Kudus (assuming recovery), Yves Bissouma, and Dane Scarlett, allowing Frank flexibility to adjust during the match.

Nottingham Forest’s Predicted Starting XI

Nottingham Forest deploy a 4-2-3-1: Matz Sels stands in goal, stepping up amid Victor’s absence with his experience and command of the area; Ola Aina at right-back delivers defensive solidity and forward surges; Nikola Milenković and Murillo form the central defensive partnership, combining physicality and ball-playing ability to thwart Tottenham’s attacks; 

Neco Williams slots in at left-back, contributing crosses and energy. Ibrahim Sangaré and Ryan Yates hold midfield, with Sangaré’s power and Yates’ work rate disrupting play; Callum Hudson-Odoi on the right, Morgan Gibbs-White as the creative number 10, and Omari Hutchinson on the left supply attacking threat, Gibbs-White’s playmaking central to transitions. Taiwo Awoniyi spearheads the attack, filling the void left by Wood with his hold-up play and goal-scoring instinct. Bench options feature Willy Boly, Elliot Anderson, Nicolás Domínguez, Dan Ndoye, Igor Jesus (if fit), James McAtee, and Dilane Bakwa, giving Dyche tools to alter the game’s flow.

Key Players to Watch in the Match

Certain players hold the potential to swing this encounter, based on their form, skills, and influence on their teams. For Tottenham, creative midfielders and forwards step up amid injuries, while Forest rely on midfield dynamos and versatile attackers to cause upsets. Additionally, these stars embody their clubs’ ambitions, making their performances critical.

Key Players for Tottenham Hotspur

Xavi Simons emerges as Tottenham’s standout talent, the Dutch midfielder’s ability to dribble past defenders, create chances, and score from range making him indispensable in Frank’s system—expect him to orchestrate attacks and test Forest’s midfield resolve. Randal Kolo Muani, the French forward, brings explosive pace and clinical finishing, having recovered from a minor car incident scare, positioning him to exploit gaps behind Forest’s defense with his movement and strength in duels. 

Cristian Romero, the Argentine center-back and vice-captain, anchors the defense with aggressive tackling and leadership, crucial in containing Forest’s counters, especially after his recent heroics like the Burnley equalizer. Archie Gray, the young English midfielder, impresses with his composure and passing accuracy, filling voids left by injuries and potentially dictating the game’s rhythm alongside Palhinha.

Key Players for Nottingham Forest

Morgan Gibbs-White stands out as Forest’s creative force, the English attacking midfielder’s vision, dribbling, and set-piece delivery enabling him to unlock tight defenses like Tottenham’s, often providing assists or scoring vital goals in big matches. Ibrahim Sangaré, the Ivorian central midfielder, dominates with his physicality, interceptions, and forward surges, disrupting Spurs’ build-up and transitioning play effectively for Dyche’s side. Taiwo Awoniyi, the Nigerian striker, compensates for Wood’s absence through his power, hold-up play, and goal threat, posing problems for Tottenham’s backline with his aerial ability and runs in behind. Murillo, the Brazilian center-back, excels in one-on-one defending and ball progression, forming a key part of Forest’s resilient rear guard that frustrates opponents.

Tactical Breakdown and Strategies

Thomas Frank employs a high-pressing, possession-oriented tactic for Tottenham, aiming to control the midfield and exploit wide areas with overlapping full-backs like Udogie and Spence, transitioning quickly to feed forwards such as Kolo Muani. However, injuries force adaptations, emphasizing compact defending when out of possession to counter Forest’s breaks. Sean Dyche counters with a disciplined, low-block setup for Forest, absorbing pressure and launching rapid counters through Gibbs-White and Hudson-Odoi, while prioritizing set pieces where players like Milenković thrive. Key battles include Simons versus Sangaré in midfield, where control dictates pace, and Kolo Muani against Murillo, testing defensive resolve. Moreover, substitutions could shift momentum, with Frank introducing Tel for flair and Dyche using Ndoye for fresh legs.

Historical Context of the Rivalry

Tottenham and Nottingham Forest share a storied rivalry dating back to the late 19th century, with over 100 meetings producing dramatic moments like Forest’s famous 1979 League Cup win and Spurs’ dominant 1990s encounters. Recent history favors Tottenham at home, but Forest’s 3-0 victory in December 2025 shifts dynamics, adding revenge motivation for Spurs. Iconic players like Glenn Hoddle for Tottenham and Stuart Pearce for Forest define past clashes, while modern stars continue the legacy, making this fixture a blend of tradition and contemporary competition.

Match Predictions and Betting Insights

Experts predict a narrow Tottenham victory, 2-1, given home advantage and superior squad depth despite injuries, with Kolo Muani likely scoring first. Betting odds favor Spurs at 1.75, draw at 3.50, and Forest at 4.50, reflecting form disparities. Over 2.5 goals appeals at 1.90, anticipating an open game, while both teams to score sits at 1.70. However, Forest’s resilience could yield a surprise draw if they capitalize on counters.

How to Watch the Game

Viewers catch the action live on Sky Sports in the UK, NBC Sports in the US, or stream via Peacock and official apps. Kick-off at 3:15 PM GMT William Saliba ensures global accessibility through broadcasters like beIN Sports and DAZN, with highlights on YouTube post-match.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the predicted lineup for Tottenham Hotspur against Nottingham Forest in March 2026?

Tottenham Hotspur’s predicted starting XI in a 4-2-3-1 formation includes Guglielmo Vicario in goal, Djed Spence at right-back, Cristian Romero and Kevin Danso as center-backs, Destiny Udogie at left-back, João Palhinha and Archie Gray in central midfield, Wilson Odobert on the right wing, Pape Matar Sarr as the attacking midfielder, Xavi Simons on the left wing, and Randal Kolo Muani up front as the striker; this setup accounts for recent recoveries from injuries like Udogie’s minor issue and assumes key players like Porro remain sidelined, allowing Frank to balance defense with attacking flair through versatile youngsters and experienced anchors.

2. What is the predicted lineup for Nottingham Forest against Tottenham Hotspur in March 2026?

Nottingham Forest’s anticipated 4-2-3-1 lineup features Matz Sels between the posts, Ola Aina at right-back, Nikola Milenković and Murillo in central defense, Neco Williams at left-back, Ibrahim Sangaré and Ryan Yates holding midfield, Callum Hudson-Odoi on Jurrien Timber the right, Morgan Gibbs-White in the number 10 role, Omari Hutchinson on the left, and Taiwo Awoniyi leading the attack; this configuration emphasizes defensive stability amid injuries to players like Savona and Wood, relying on Gibbs-White’s creativity to fuel counters against Tottenham’s possession game.

3. How do injuries affect Tottenham’s chances in this match?

Injuries significantly hamper Tottenham’s prospects, with long-term absences like James Maddison’s ACL tear until June 2026 and Lucas Bergvall’s ankle surgery forcing reliance on less experienced options, while shorter-term issues such as Pedro Porro’s four-week hamstring layoff and Richarlison’s seven-week absence limit attacking depth; however, returns like Destiny Udogie and Xavi Simons bolster the squad, enabling Frank to adapt tactics and maintain competitiveness through players like Archie Gray stepping up in midfield.

4. What impact do Nottingham Forest’s injuries have on their strategy?

Nottingham Forest’s injuries, including John Victor’s season-ending knee problem and Chris Wood’s potential absence for the remainder of the Callan Rydz campaign due to knee surgery, compel Dyche to adjust by promoting Matz Sels in goal and Taiwo Awoniyi up front, shifting focus to counter-attacks and set pieces; additionally, doubts over Igor Jesus and Nicolo Savona necessitate defensive reinforcements like Willy Boly, potentially making the team more compact but less potent in open play against Tottenham.

5. Who are the key players to watch for Tottenham in this fixture?

Key players for Tottenham include Xavi Simons, whose dribbling and playmaking unlock defenses, Randal Kolo Muani for his goal-scoring threat and speed, and Cristian Romero for defensive leadership and timely interventions; these individuals drive the team’s performance, especially amid injuries, by creating chances, finishing opportunities, and organizing the backline to counter Forest’s threats effectively.

6. Who are the standout players for Nottingham Forest against Tottenham?

Standout players for Nottingham Forest feature Morgan Gibbs-White, the attacking midfielder who orchestrates plays with vision and assists, Ibrahim Sangaré for his midfield dominance and tackling, and Taiwo Awoniyi as the focal point in attack with his physicality and finishing; they embody Dyche’s gritty style, disrupting Tottenham’s rhythm and capitalizing on transitions to secure points.

7. What is the historical record between Tottenham and Nottingham Forest?

Tottenham hold a strong historical edge over Arne Slot Under Fire Nottingham Forest, winning the majority of their over 100 encounters since the late 1800s, including dominant periods in the 1990s and recent home victories; however, Forest’s notable triumphs, such as the 3-0 win in December 2025 and the 1979 League Cup success, add spice, reminding Spurs of the rivalry’s unpredictability and motivating revenge in this March 2026 clash.

8. How might tactics influence the outcome of this game?

Tactics play a pivotal role, with Thomas Frank’s high-pressing, possession-focused approach for Tottenham aiming to dominate midfield and exploit wings, clashing against Sean Dyche’s low-block, counter-attacking strategy for Forest that prioritizes defensive organization and set-piece exploitation; success hinges on winning key battles like midfield control, where adaptations to injuries could tip the balance toward an open, goal-filled encounter or a tense stalemate.

9. What are the current Premier League standings for both teams as of January 2026?

As of late January 2026, Tottenham Hotspur sit in 14th Perth Scorchers place with 28 points from 23 matches, recording seven wins, seven draws, and nine losses, while Nottingham Forest occupy 17th with 25 points from the same games, achieving seven wins, four draws, and 12 losses; these positions underscore Tottenham’s mid-table struggles and Forest’s relegation battle, making the March match crucial for momentum.

10. Where can fans watch the Tottenham vs Nottingham Forest match live?

Fans watch the Tottenham vs Nottingham Forest match live on Sky Sports in the UK, NBC Sports or Peacock in the US, beIN Sports in the Middle East, DAZN in various regions, or through official club apps for streaming; kick-off at 3:15 PM GMT on March 22, 2026, ensures broad accessibility, with post-match highlights available on YouTube and social media for those unable to tune in real-time.

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