A somewhat weakened Manchester City squad is set to face an in-form Nottingham Forest in a highly anticipated 2025 FA Cup semifinal scheduled for Sunday, April 27. The two teams have met twice in the Premier League this season, with Nottingham Forest securing a notable 1-0 victory in their most recent encounter on March 8. Manchester City, currently sitting third in the EPL table with a record of 18 wins, 7 draws, and 9 losses, enters the match on a strong run, boasting five wins and two draws in their last seven outings. Meanwhile, Nottingham Forest, positioned fourth in the league with an identical 18-6-9 record, is coming off a significant 2-1 win against Tottenham Hotspur earlier in the week.
The semifinal clash is scheduled to kick off at 11:30 a.m. ET at the legendary Wembley Stadium in London. In the betting markets, Manchester City is favored with odds of -140, while Nottingham Forest is listed as the underdog at +340. The odds for the match ending in a draw are +280. The expected total number of goals scored is set at 2.5, with odds for the `Under` market available.
Analyzing the potential outcome, one notable prediction is for **Under 2.5 total goals**. This view is influenced by Manchester City`s current injury situation, particularly the absence of key striker Erling Haaland, which shifts some attacking responsibility to players like Phil Foden. Recent performance data supports this, as Manchester City has scored two goals or fewer in seven of their last eight matches. Similarly, Nottingham Forest has managed one goal or fewer in four of their past five fixtures, suggesting a potentially tight contest with limited scoring opportunities.
Another suggested betting angle is **Double Chance: Draw or Nottingham Forest victory**. This perspective considers Nottingham Forest`s significant progress and transformation over the past year, moving from a team focused on avoiding relegation to one competing for a place in a major final. It also factors in the possibility that Manchester City, while dominant, might be slightly distracted or prioritizing the intense conclusion of the English Premier League season, potentially opening the door for a resilient Nottingham Forest side to achieve a favorable result or even an upset.
