Liverpool face Nottingham Forest in Saturday's early Premier League kick-off at Anfield.
Liverpool vs Nottingham Forest is the headline early Premier League fixture on Saturday, August 29, 2026, as two clubs searching for their first league victory of the new campaign meet at Anfield.
The match represents an important early test for both teams. Liverpool will be hoping to turn home advantage into three points after being held to a dramatic 2-2 draw by Newcastle United on the opening weekend, while Nottingham Forest arrive on Merseyside looking to recover from a difficult start under new manager Oliver Glasner.
The fixture is scheduled to kick off at 12:30pm BST on Saturday, August 29, making it the traditional Saturday lunchtime Premier League early kick-off.
For Liverpool, the objective is straightforward: win, perform better defensively and give new head coach Andoni Iraola a successful home debut.
For Forest, the challenge is considerably different. Glasner's side must demonstrate that they can withstand Liverpool's attacking pressure while using their pace and counter-attacking ability to punish the hosts.
The match is particularly intriguing because recent history suggests that Forest should not be underestimated. Nottingham Forest have already demonstrated that they can cause Liverpool serious problems at Anfield, making this more complicated than a straightforward home win.
Liverpool vs Nottingham Forest Match Details
Match: Liverpool vs Nottingham Forest
Competition: Premier League 2026/27
Date: Saturday, August 29, 2026
Venue: Anfield, Liverpool
Kick-off: 12:30pm BST
Match type: Premier League early kick-off
Liverpool's official match information confirms that Matchday Live coverage begins before kick-off, while supporters can follow live updates, team news and commentary through the club's official channels.
Liverpool Looking for Their First Victory
Liverpool enter the fixture with plenty to prove.
The Reds opened their Premier League campaign away against Newcastle United and appeared on course for defeat before a dramatic late equaliser from Dominik Szoboszlai rescued a point.
The 2-2 draw highlighted both sides of Liverpool's current situation.
There were positive signs going forward, but there were also defensive concerns that new manager Andoni Iraola will want to address quickly.
Liverpool created opportunities and showed enough attacking quality to suggest that goals will come. However, conceding twice and needing a very late penalty to avoid defeat demonstrated that the team is still adjusting to the demands of a new managerial era.
Saturday's fixture therefore becomes more than just another league match.
It is Iraola's first Premier League home match in charge of Liverpool, and Anfield will expect a response.
Liverpool supporters will want to see greater control, quicker passing, improved defensive organisation and more efficiency in front of goal.
The Reds also know that dropping points against Forest would immediately increase the pressure surrounding their start to the season.
Reuters noted that Liverpool were among the major Premier League clubs to experience an unsteady opening weekend, with the late penalty at Newcastle eventually earning them a point.
Nottingham Forest Arrive at Anfield With Plenty to Prove
Nottingham Forest have experienced a difficult beginning to the 2026/27 campaign.
The club appointed Oliver Glasner as manager and will be hoping that his tactical approach can eventually produce a successful season.
However, the opening fixtures have not gone according to plan.
Forest lost their Premier League opener against Leeds United and subsequently suffered another defeat against the same opposition in the Carabao Cup.
That means the visit to Anfield comes at an uncomfortable moment.
Another defeat would leave Forest without a victory from their first league matches and could create significant pressure around the team.
Nevertheless, Forest have reasons to believe they can compete.
Their recent record against Liverpool at Anfield demonstrates that they are capable of producing unexpected results.
The visitors also possess players capable of causing problems when they transition quickly from defence into attack.
The tactical battle between Liverpool's possession-based approach and Forest's counter-attacking threat could ultimately determine the result.
Liverpool vs Nottingham Forest Head-to-Head
Historically, Liverpool have been one of the biggest clubs in English football, while Nottingham Forest have enjoyed their own periods of success, particularly during their famous European era.
The modern meetings between the two clubs have also produced some surprises.
Forest have shown that they can frustrate Liverpool and exploit defensive weaknesses.
One of the biggest reasons this fixture deserves attention is Forest's recent success at Anfield.
The visitors famously produced a shock 3-0 victory at Anfield last season, demonstrating that Liverpool cannot afford to underestimate them.
That result will remain in the minds of Liverpool supporters.
Anfield is normally one of the most intimidating venues in English football, but Forest have already demonstrated that they are capable of silencing the home crowd.
Liverpool will therefore need to approach Saturday's game with concentration from the first minute.
Liverpool's Biggest Strength: Attacking Quality
Liverpool's greatest advantage is the quality available in their attacking areas.
The Reds possess players capable of creating opportunities from open play, set pieces and individual moments of brilliance.
Cody Gakpo was one of the standout performers during the opening weekend, while Dominik Szoboszlai once again demonstrated his importance to Liverpool's midfield and attacking structure.
Liverpool also have significant expectations surrounding Alexander Isak.
The forward is expected to play a major role for the club and will be looking to establish himself as one of the Premier League's most dangerous attackers.
The combination of Isak's movement and Liverpool's creative players could cause serious problems for Forest.
If Liverpool move the ball quickly around the Forest defensive block, the visitors could find themselves defending for long periods.
Cody Gakpo Could Be a Key Player
Cody Gakpo enters the match as one of Liverpool's players to watch.
The Dutch forward produced a strong performance against Newcastle and remains one of Liverpool's most versatile attacking players.
He can operate from the left, move centrally or attack spaces behind defenders.
That flexibility makes him difficult to mark.
Against a Forest side expected to defend compactly at times, Gakpo's ability to move between positions could become extremely important.
If Forest's defenders follow him too aggressively, spaces could appear elsewhere.
If they allow him too much freedom, Gakpo can receive the ball in dangerous areas and create chances.
Liverpool will likely look to use that movement throughout the match.
Alexander Isak Under the Spotlight
Alexander Isak will also attract considerable attention.
The striker is expected to lead Liverpool's attack, and his movement could be particularly important against Forest's defensive structure.
Isak's ability to drop into midfield, stretch defensive lines and attack spaces behind defenders gives Liverpool another dimension.
However, he will need service.
Liverpool's midfield must provide him with quality passes, particularly when Forest sit deep.
If Liverpool become too predictable and simply cross the ball repeatedly, Forest could defend comfortably.
The Reds will need variation.
Quick combinations around the penalty area, through balls and diagonal passes could create the openings Isak needs.
Dominik Szoboszlai's Importance
Dominik Szoboszlai enters the game with confidence after scoring Liverpool's late penalty against Newcastle.
Beyond his goals, the Hungarian midfielder offers energy, creativity and long-range shooting ability.
His role could become especially important if Forest defend deep.
Liverpool may need a player willing to shoot from distance and force Forest's midfielders to step forward.
Once they step out, gaps can appear behind them.
Szoboszlai can also contribute defensively, helping Liverpool win possession quickly after losing the ball.
That could be crucial because Forest's counter-attacks will represent one of the biggest dangers for Liverpool.
Nottingham Forest's Main Threat: Counter-Attacking Football
Forest's best route to victory could be through counter-attacking football.
Liverpool are likely to dominate possession.
That means Forest will probably have opportunities to win the ball and attack open spaces.
Liverpool's full-backs may push high up the pitch, leaving space behind them.
Forest's attackers will be looking to exploit exactly those areas.
The visitors do not necessarily need to dominate possession to win.
Instead, they can defend patiently and wait for moments when Liverpool lose concentration.
One successful counter-attack could completely change the match.
Morgan Gibbs-White Could Be Crucial
Morgan Gibbs-White is one of Forest's most important creative players.
His ability to carry the ball, create chances and connect midfield with attack makes him an important part of Forest's plans.
He has also produced strong performances against Liverpool in the past.
If Forest want to get anything from the game, Gibbs-White will likely need to be involved.
He could be particularly dangerous when Liverpool leave space between their midfield and defence.
Forest could look to get him on the ball quickly after recovering possession.
Liam Delap Could Make an Impact
Another player attracting attention is new signing Liam Delap.
The forward has joined Forest with significant expectations surrounding him and could provide additional physicality and attacking threat.
His ability to hold the ball up could be particularly useful.
Forest may need an outlet when Liverpool dominate possession.
Instead of immediately losing the ball after winning it back, Forest need a forward capable of keeping possession and bringing teammates into the attack.
Delap could perform that role.
The Tactical Battle
The tactical battle could be one of the most fascinating aspects of the fixture.
Liverpool are expected to control possession and push Forest backwards.
Forest, meanwhile, are likely to prioritise defensive organisation and quick transitions.
Liverpool's challenge will be breaking down a compact defensive structure without becoming vulnerable to counter-attacks.
Forest's challenge will be surviving Liverpool's pressure while creating enough opportunities to threaten the home goal.
The first goal could therefore be extremely important.
If Liverpool score early, Forest may have to abandon their defensive approach.
That would create more space for Liverpool's attackers.
However, if Forest score first, the tactical situation changes completely.
Liverpool would have to attack even more aggressively, potentially leaving larger spaces for Forest to exploit.
Why the Early Kick-Off Matters
The 12:30pm Saturday kick-off adds another interesting element to the fixture.
Early Premier League matches can sometimes produce unusual performances because teams have less recovery and preparation time compared with weekend fixtures played later in the day.
For Forest, the schedule is particularly demanding because they have also had a midweek Carabao Cup fixture against Leeds.
That means Liverpool could have an advantage in terms of preparation and freshness.
Liverpool had a free midweek compared with Forest's additional competitive fixture, according to match previews.
This could become important during the second half.
If Forest defend for long periods, fatigue may eventually create spaces.
Liverpool will want to increase the tempo as the match progresses.
Liverpool Team News
Liverpool have several players whose fitness and availability are being monitored.
Recent reports have highlighted injuries affecting players including Hugo Ekitiké and Conor Bradley, while other squad members remain subject to fitness considerations.
The final starting XI will only be confirmed shortly before kick-off.
That means predicted lineups should not be treated as official team selections.
Liverpool's priority will be selecting the strongest possible attacking combination while maintaining enough defensive stability to prevent Forest from exploiting counter-attacking opportunities.
Nottingham Forest Team News
Forest also have fitness questions to consider.
The club have been dealing with injuries and squad changes as Glasner continues to shape his team.
Ibrahim Sangaré has been reported as unavailable because of injury, while there is also attention surrounding Neco Williams' fitness.
The transfer window remains open, meaning the Forest squad could still change before deadline day.
That uncertainty makes predicting their exact lineup difficult.
Predicted Liverpool Lineup
Liverpool could line up in a strong attacking formation.
Predicted Liverpool XI:
Goalkeeper: First-choice goalkeeper
Defenders: Right-back, centre-back, centre-back, left-back
Midfield: Defensive midfielder, Dominik Szoboszlai, attacking midfielder
Attack: Right winger, Alexander Isak, Cody Gakpo
The exact lineup will depend on fitness and Iraola's tactical decisions.
ESPN's predicted lineup coverage also identifies Liverpool's need to find their first league win of the season in Iraola's first home match.
Predicted Nottingham Forest Lineup
Forest are expected to prioritise defensive organisation.
Predicted Forest XI:
Goalkeeper: First-choice goalkeeper
Defence: Right-back, centre-back, centre-back, left-back
Midfield: Defensive midfielder, central midfielder, Morgan Gibbs-White
Attack: Wide forward, striker, wide forward
Glasner could choose a system designed to limit Liverpool's central attacking combinations while allowing his wide players to attack spaces during transitions.
Liverpool vs Nottingham Forest Prediction
Liverpool enter this fixture as favourites.
Home advantage, squad quality, attacking depth and the need to respond after the Newcastle draw all point toward the Reds.
However, Forest's recent record against Liverpool means the match should not be treated as an easy fixture.
Liverpool need to show greater defensive concentration.
If they do, their attacking quality should eventually make the difference.
Our prediction:
Liverpool 2-0 Nottingham Forest
The most likely scenario is Liverpool controlling possession and creating more chances before eventually breaking Forest down.
A clean sheet is also possible.
Some prediction models make Liverpool strong favourites, with one model giving the hosts around a two-thirds probability of victory and identifying 2-0 as the most likely scoreline.
Alternative Prediction: Liverpool 3-1 Nottingham Forest
There is also a strong argument for a higher-scoring Liverpool victory.
If Forest score during a counter-attack, the game could become much more open.
Liverpool's attacking players could then have greater opportunities because Forest would have to take more risks.
Some analysts have gone for a 3-1 Liverpool victory, arguing that the Reds created enough chances against Newcastle to suggest they can score several goals against Forest.
Therefore, the two most realistic scorelines are:
Liverpool 2-0 Nottingham Forest
or
Liverpool 3-1 Nottingham Forest
Could Both Teams Score?
This is one of the more difficult markets to predict.
There are arguments on both sides.
Liverpool conceded twice against Newcastle, which suggests Forest could find opportunities.
However, Forest have struggled to score during the opening competitive matches of the season.
TNT Sports' prediction analysis has highlighted Forest's lack of goals and backed Liverpool to win to nil, while other prediction models believe both teams could score.
Our preference is therefore:
Both Teams to Score: Slight lean toward NO
The reason is that Forest may struggle to create enough clear chances against Liverpool if the hosts control the match.
Over or Under 2.5 Goals?
This is another interesting prediction.
Liverpool possess enough attacking quality to score three goals themselves.
However, Forest are likely to approach the game cautiously.
A tactical match could therefore produce two or three goals rather than a goal-filled contest.
One prediction source has identified Under 3.5 goals as a strong possibility, while TNT Sports has highlighted Under 2.5 goals as a value selection.
Our preferred prediction:
Under 3.5 Goals
This provides room for a 2-1 or 3-0 result.
First Team to Score
Liverpool are the obvious choice.
The Reds are expected to have more possession and more attacking territory.
Forest's defensive strategy could keep the game level during the opening stages, but Liverpool should eventually create a major opportunity.
Prediction: Liverpool to score first.
Half-Time Prediction
The opening 45 minutes could be cagey.
Forest are unlikely to immediately commit large numbers forward.
Liverpool could dominate possession without necessarily scoring early.
That makes the following prediction attractive:
Half-time: Liverpool 1-0 Nottingham Forest
Alternatively, the match could remain goalless until the second half.
Full-Time Prediction
Our final prediction is:
Liverpool 2-0 Nottingham Forest
Liverpool should have too much quality for Forest over 90 minutes.
The Reds have the advantage of playing at Anfield, while Forest enter the game after a difficult opening to the season.
However, Liverpool must avoid the defensive mistakes that allowed Newcastle to score twice.
If Liverpool defend properly, their attacking quality should be enough to secure three points.
Three Players to Watch
1. Alexander Isak
Isak will be under pressure to deliver.
His movement could cause serious problems for Forest's centre-backs.
A goal would provide an early boost to his confidence and Liverpool's campaign.
2. Cody Gakpo
Gakpo's versatility makes him one of Liverpool's most dangerous attackers.
He can create chances, score and combine with Isak.
3. Morgan Gibbs-White
For Forest, Gibbs-White could be the player most capable of producing something unexpected.
His creativity and ability to carry the ball could give Liverpool's midfield problems.
Key Battle: Liverpool Attack vs Forest Defence
The most important battle will probably occur around Forest's penalty area.
Liverpool will try to move the ball quickly from side to side.
Forest will attempt to maintain a compact defensive structure.
The question is whether Forest can remain organised for the entire 90 minutes.
Against elite attacking players, one small defensive mistake can lead to a goal.
Liverpool will be looking for exactly that moment.
Key Battle: Liverpool's Full-Backs vs Forest Counter-Attacks
Liverpool's full-backs could play high positions.
That is useful when Liverpool attack but dangerous when possession is lost.
Forest will look for opportunities to attack the spaces behind them.
Liverpool's midfielders will therefore need to provide defensive cover.
If Liverpool lose possession carelessly, Forest could immediately create a dangerous counter-attack.
What Liverpool Must Do to Win
Liverpool need to follow several key principles.
1. Score early
An early goal would force Forest to change their tactical approach.
2. Avoid defensive mistakes
Liverpool cannot afford another performance in which defensive errors allow opponents to score easily.
3. Control transitions
Forest's counter-attacking ability represents one of the biggest threats.
4. Use width
Liverpool should stretch Forest's defensive structure.
5. Be patient
If Forest sit deep, Liverpool must avoid becoming frustrated.
What Nottingham Forest Must Do to Win
Forest have a difficult task but a clear strategy.
1. Stay compact
The defensive lines must remain close together.
2. Attack quickly
Forest need to transition rapidly whenever they recover possession.
3. Target the spaces behind Liverpool's full-backs
This could be their best source of chances.
4. Make set pieces count
Corners and free-kicks could provide opportunities.
5. Keep Liverpool frustrated
The longer the game stays level, the greater Forest's confidence will become.
Why Liverpool Are Favourites
There are several reasons Liverpool should be considered favourites.
First is home advantage.
Anfield remains one of the most difficult stadiums for visiting teams.
Second is squad quality.
Liverpool possess considerably more attacking depth.
Third is motivation.
Iraola will want his first home Premier League match to end with victory.
Fourth is Forest's current form.
The visitors have begun the campaign with defeats and are still adapting to Glasner's methods.
Prediction markets also strongly favour Liverpool, with one model giving the hosts around a 66% chance of victory.
Why Forest Cannot Be Written Off
Despite Liverpool's advantages, Forest should not be dismissed.
The club have already shown that they can cause problems for Liverpool at Anfield.
They also possess dangerous attacking players capable of exploiting space.
Liverpool's defensive issues mean Forest could create opportunities if they transition effectively.
This is why the Reds must remain focused.
A complacent performance could lead to another surprise result.
Match Prediction Summary
Liverpool to win: Yes
Liverpool clean sheet: Possible
Both teams to score: Slight preference for No
Over 1.5 goals: Yes
Under 3.5 goals: Yes
Liverpool to score first: Yes
Half-time prediction: Liverpool 1-0 Forest
Full-time prediction: Liverpool 2-0 Forest
Alternative score: Liverpool 3-1 Forest
Player to watch: Alexander Isak
Potential Forest danger man: Morgan Gibbs-White
Final Verdict
Liverpool vs Nottingham Forest promises to be one of the most interesting early fixtures of the second Premier League weekend.
Liverpool enter the match needing a victory after their opening-day draw against Newcastle.
Forest, meanwhile, desperately need a positive result after a difficult start under Oliver Glasner.
The visitors have already demonstrated that they can surprise Liverpool at Anfield, so the home side must avoid underestimating their opponents.
Nevertheless, Liverpool have the stronger squad, home advantage and greater attacking options.
If the Reds can improve their defensive organisation and convert their chances, they should have enough quality to secure their first Premier League victory of the season.
Forest's best chance will be to remain disciplined, frustrate Liverpool and attack quickly on the counter.
But over 90 minutes, Liverpool's pressure should eventually tell.
Final Prediction: Liverpool 2-0 Nottingham Forest
Liverpool to dominate possession, create the majority of the chances and eventually secure three valuable points at Anfield.
Disclaimer: Football predictions are opinions based on available information, team form and tactical factors. They are not guarantees of the final result. If you are betting, do so responsibly and within your means.