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Nottingham Forest v Porto: UEFA Europa League predictions, best bets and odds

Nottingham Forest vs Porto: Predictions, best bets and odds (UEFA Europa League)
Nottingham Forest vs Porto: Predictions, best bets and odds (UEFA Europa League)Flashscore

The Sean Dyche era begins at the City Ground as Nottingham Forest welcome FC Porto in a crucial UEFA Europa League clash on Thursday night.

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Dyche was appointed earlier this week following the dismissal of Ange Postecoglou, and his first assignment is a tough one as he leads Forest against an experienced European outfit hoping to get their campaign back on track.

Forest will hope the familiar atmosphere of the City Ground provides a spark, especially after their heavy defeat to Chelsea at the weekend. 

With two points from their opening two Europa League games, victory against Porto could be vital in their push for knockout qualification.

Nottingham v Porto tips

•    Both teams to score - 33/50 with Bet365

•    Over 1.5 goals - 1/4 with Bet365

•    Callum Hudson-Odoi to have 2+ shots - 57/100 with Bet365

Odds courtesy of bet365. Correct at the time of publication and subject to change.

Both teams to score 

While Dyche’s arrival might suggest a defensive tightening, both of these sides have been far more effective going forward than keeping teams out. Forest have scored twice in each of their first two Europa League games this season but have drawn both games.

Porto, on the other hand, have found the net in eight of their last nine European matches, and their quick transitional play should test a Forest backline still adjusting to a new system. 

Considering Forest’s creative duo of Callum Hudson-Odoi and Elliot Anderson lead the Europa League for open-play chances created (7 each), both sides finding the net looks like the most realistic scenario, especially at 33/50 on Bet365.

Tip: Both teams to score @ 33/50 

Bet explanation: This bet wins if each of Nottingham and Porto score at least one goal each

Over 1.5 goals 

This fixture has all the ingredients for goals. Forest’s Europa League games have averaged 4.5 goals per match so far, while Porto have scored three times across their opening two group fixtures. 

Dyche’s sides are known for direct attacking football, and with the home crowd behind them, Forest will likely push forward rather than sit deep.

Porto’s experience and clinical edge mean they’ll also pose a constant threat, making Over 1.5 Goals at 1/4 with Bet365 feel like one of the safer selections on the card. Every indication points to both sides contributing to the scoreline.

Tip: Over 1.5 goals @ 1/4 

Bet explanation: This bet wins if there are at least two goals scored in the game between Nottingham and Porto.

Callum Hudson-Odoi to have 2+ shots 

If Forest are to trouble Porto, much of their success will depend on Callum Hudson-Odoi, who has been their standout performer in Europe so far. T

The winger has registered three shots in each of his two Europa League appearances this season and was rested at the weekend against Chelsea to keep him fresh for this tie.

Hudson-Odoi’s willingness to cut inside and test the goalkeeper, coupled with Forest’s high possession when chasing games, suggests he’ll have plenty of opportunities to shoot again here. At 57/100 on Bet365, backing him for 2+ shots feels like a confident play given his current form and confidence.

Tip: Callum Hudson-Odoi to have 2+ shots @ 57/100 

Bet explanation: This bet wins if Callum Hudson-Odoi plays at least two shots against Porto

Nottingham v Porto odds

•    Nottingham Forest - 31/20 with Bet365

•    Draw - 12/5 with Bet365

•    FC Porto – 7/4 with Bet365

Odds, correct at the time of publication, are subject to change.

Discover the Best Betting Bonuses

If you’re looking to take advantage of the Europa League matches for your bets, Flashscore is here to help. On our betting bonuses page, you’ll find some of the best promotions and bonus codes on the market.

The odds, correct at the time of publication, are subject to change.