Nottingham Forest vs Aston Villa in the Europa League
The Europa League returns to the banks of the Trent as Nottingham Forest host Aston Villa at City Ground. Knockout soccer under the lights in Nottingham always carries added drama, and this tie could determine who keeps their continental dream alive.
For Forest, advancing would mark another historic European night for a club that cherishes such moments. Villa, meanwhile, are eager to translate their domestic momentum into silverware abroad and prove they belong among the continent’s elite.
Founded in 1865, Nottingham Forest are two-time European Cup winners (1979, 1980) and have lifted the English top-flight title once. Legendary manager Brian Clough and club icon John Robertson remain synonymous with Forest’s golden era.
Nottingham Forest — Club Profile
Nottingham Forest traditionally favor a possession-based approach at City Ground, using width and quick interchanges to unlock defenses. The club’s academy has a reputation for producing technically gifted players who press aggressively when out of possession.
Forest sides are known for their resilience in knockout scenarios, often backed by a raucous Trent End. Set-piece routines and swift counterattacks are key weapons, especially against higher-rated opposition.
Aston Villa — Club Profile
Aston Villa, established in 1874, lean on high-tempo transitions and a balanced 4-3-3 that maximizes pace on the flanks. Their midfield typically dictates rhythm through short, crisp passing before releasing runners into space.
Defensively, Villa rely on an organized back line anchored by an experienced center-half pairing and an agile goalkeeper. Quick recuperation of the ball and clinical finishing make them a threat away from home.
Lineups: Nottingham Forest vs Aston Villa
The confirmed lineup for Nottingham Forest: (4-4-2) Stefan Ortega, Ola Aina, Nikola Milenković, Morato, Neco Williams, Omari Hutchinson, Nicolás Domínguez, Elliot Anderson, Morgan Gibbs-White, Chris Wood, Igor Jesus — Coach: Vitor Pereira.
For Aston Villa, the manager confirmed: (4-2-3-1) Emiliano Martínez, Matty Cash, Ezri Konsa, Pau Torres, Lucas Digne, Amadou Onana, Youri Tielemans, John McGinn, Emiliano Buendía, Morgan Rogers, Ollie Watkins — Coach: Unai Emery.
Nottingham Forest vs Aston Villa: Head-to-Head & Match Prediction
Recent meetings: 12 Apr 2026 — Nottingham Forest 1-1 Aston Villa; 03 Jan 2026 — Aston Villa 3-1 Nottingham Forest; 05 Apr 2025 — Aston Villa 2-1 Nottingham Forest; 14 Dec 2024 — Nottingham Forest 2-1 Aston Villa; 24 Feb 2024 — Aston Villa 4-2 Nottingham Forest. Villa have won three of the last five, with Forest claiming one victory and a draw.
Attack metrics favor Villa at 68 % versus Forest’s 32 %. Defensively, Villa also lead 63 % to 38 %. With stronger numbers on both ends, the predicted winner is Aston Villa, though Forest’s home support could narrow the gap in what should be a tightly contested encounter.
Frequently Asked Questions: Nottingham Forest vs Aston Villa
Where can I watch Nottingham Forest vs Aston Villa live?
You can stream the match on Paramount+ or watch on cable via CBS Sports Network. Cord-cutters can also access the game through fuboTV, which carries CBS Sports Network within its packages.
What time does Nottingham Forest vs Aston Villa start?
Kickoff is at 3:00 PM ET on Thursday, 04/30/2026.
Which channel is showing Nottingham Forest vs Aston Villa?
The match will air on Paramount+, CBS Sports Network, and via the streaming service fuboTV.
Can I watch Nottingham Forest vs Aston Villa for free?
fuboTV and Paramount+ both offer limited free trial periods for new users, which could allow you to watch the match without paying if you’ve not subscribed before. Otherwise, the broadcast is on paid platforms.
Where will Nottingham Forest vs Aston Villa be played?
The match will be played at City Ground, Nottingham.
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