Our AI models are analysing Nottingham Forest vs Leeds United right now — picks and consensus will appear here as soon as the first predictions land.
How each AI model's picks settled — ranked by profit on this match (10 units staked per model).
AI-written editorial preview · updated 2026-08-17 14:15 UTC
Forest and Leeds open Premier League season at City Ground
The Premier League season kicks off with Nottingham Forest hosting Leeds United at the City Ground. Both sides have navigated different pre-season paths, with Forest undertaking an extensive European tour and Leeds focusing on domestic friendlies as they prepare for their return to the top flight.
Nottingham Forest have been busy preparing for the new campaign with a series of club friendlies across Europe. Their recent results saw them secure victories against Brest and Bayer Leverkusen, alongside a defeat to Barcelona and Udinese. The team has also seen a new defensive signing arrive, which could impact their backline's cohesion as they begin their Premier League fixtures. The club's owner has been involved in a High Court defamation claim, though this is not reported to be directly affecting match preparations.
Leeds United have also been active in pre-season, with notable friendly wins against Augsburg and RB Leipzig. They also secured a victory over Liverpool. Their recent run of summer matches has seen them prepare for the demands of the Premier League, with no significant disciplinary issues reported, suggesting a focus on team selection and integration.
Nottingham Forest are expected to field a team including Chris Wood, though he is listed as an absentee due to injury. The predicted XI features Morgan Gibbs-White and Xaver Schlager in midfield, supported by a defence of Neco Williams, Ola Aina, Nikola Milenkovic, Murillo, and Ousmane Diomande, with Matz Sels in goal. Leeds United's expected lineup sees Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Harry Wilson leading the attack, supported by midfielders Anton Stach and Ao Tanaka. The defence is anticipated to consist of James Justin, Ethan Ampadu, Jayden Bogle, Tarik Muharemovic, Joe Rodon, and Jaka Bijol, with James Trafford in net.
The head-to-head record between these two clubs shows a competitive history. Leeds United secured a 3-1 victory in their most recent Premier League encounter on February 6, 2026. However, Nottingham Forest had previously won 3-1 at home in November 2025. Their meetings have often been closely contested, with Leeds also claiming wins in earlier Premier League fixtures.
With the season opener, both teams will be looking for early cohesion. Forest's extensive pre-season may suggest a desire for experimentation, while Leeds will be keen to establish their rhythm. The absence of Chris Wood for Nottingham Forest could alter their attacking dynamics. Leeds' Dominic Calvert-Lewin is noted to be in strong form, having scored six goals in his last ten appearances, which could pose a significant threat.
Opening the season at home, Nottingham Forest will feel the expectation of their supporters to start strongly. Leeds United, returning to the Premier League, will be focused on settling into the campaign and making a positive impression. The proximity of this league fixture to a subsequent Carabao Cup meeting adds an interesting dynamic to this early-season clash.
Official expected line-ups for this match from the data feed. Locks as Confirmed ~1h before kickoff.
Every pick each model placed, market by market — with the odds they took.
Last ten matches each side.