On Saturday 26 September 2026, Crystal Palace play Nottingham Forest in the EPL. Our model likes 3 bets here. The one it likes most is Crystal Palace +0.5 Goal Handicap, priced at -222 when we wrote this. Here is the thinking behind each pick, in plain English.

Crystal Palace vs Nottingham Forest: Crystal Palace +0.5 Goal Handicap (-222)

Odds available at DraftKings at time of publishing

As Crystal Palace gears up to face Nottingham Forest, the narrative suggests a pivotal moment for the Eagles. While their recent home record may raise eyebrows—1-1-3 in the last five—Palace has shown resilience against less formidable opponents. Their xG numbers hint at untapped potential, despite a frustrating 1.2 average goals scored at home. In contrast, Nottingham Forest has struggled on the road, averaging only 0.8 goals, and their away defensive weaknesses could be exploited here. With Palace historically having the edge in this matchup—though results haven’t favored them lately—this game could mark a turning point. The Eagles’ attacking attempts are more frequent, and it’s about time they convert those chances. Given the stakes and the form, backing Palace at a -0.5 handicap feels like a savvy play in this clash.

Crystal Palace vs Nottingham Forest: Both Teams To Score: No (+100)

Odds available at DraftKings at time of publishing

As Crystal Palace prepares to host Nottingham Forest, the dynamics suggest we might see a lack of goals in this matchup. Palace has struggled offensively at home, averaging just 1.2 goals while conceding 2.2 in their last five, reflecting a troubling trend. They’re yet to record an xG at Selhurst Park during this stretch, which is alarming for a team looking to find its footing. On the flip side, Nottingham Forest has only mustered 0.8 goals per game in their last five outings, with an away scoring average of 2.8. However, their xG numbers have been low, indicating missed opportunities rather than prolific scoring. With both teams appearing to lack the firepower to consistently find the net, betting on 'No' for both teams to score feels like the smart play here. The recent trends suggest a tight contest, likely ending with minimal goal action.

Crystal Palace vs Nottingham Forest: Nottingham Forest +0.25 Goal Handicap (-169)

Odds available at DraftKings at time of publishing

As Crystal Palace prepares to host Nottingham Forest, recent trends paint a compelling picture for a bet on Forest with a 0.25 handicap. The Eagles have struggled at home, managing just one win in their last five outings and averaging a mere 1.2 goals per game. Meanwhile, their defense has been leaky, conceding an alarming 2.2 goals on average at Selhurst Park. In contrast, Nottingham Forest has shown resilience on the road, with a solid away performance that includes a recent bounce-back. They’ve averaged 2.8 goals in their last five away games, highlighting their attacking prowess. With Palace's poor home form and Forest’s ability to capitalize on opponents’ weaknesses, backing Nottingham with a slight handicap seems like a savvy move. Given their historical edge—winning four of the last five encounters—this matchup strongly favors Forest to at least secure a draw, making the 0.25 line very appealing.

That is how our model reads Crystal Palace v Nottingham Forest. Prices move, so check the price at your bookmaker before you back anything. And if a game does not feel right to you, the strongest move is to skip it -- there is another one tomorrow.

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