Credit: Imago

Scott Mason

Fri 17 April 2026 9:10, UK

West Ham United will be delighted that Nottingham Forest’s schedule continues to leave them with little rest after qualifying for the Europa League semi-finals.

The Hammers are out of the drop zone for the first time since November and remain just three points behind Vitor Pereira’s side.

Much of the talk has fallen the way of Tottenham and the Hammers, but Forest are still submerged in the relegation battle.

The City Ground side have a disadvantage that the rest of their rivals at the bottom of the table do not have.

As West Ham look to end the season strongly, Nottingham Forest’s focus could be split in two separate directions.

Why Nottingham Forest’s European run could backfire in West Ham’s favour

Nuno Espirito Santo’s former club have done remarkably well in European competition and have now set themselves up for a semi-final against Aston Villa.

Although manager Pereira has admitted survival is the priority for the Tricky Trees, now that they are just two games from a major final, that could reshape his thinking.

Facing Aston Villa will be no easy feat and, in truth, will likely see two intense games over both legs.

Although it is not either side’s biggest rivalry, it is a Midlands derby neither will want to lose.

For Nottingham Forest, it is not an ideal situation for their fight for survival, particularly considering which games are in and around those two legs.

After the first leg on 30 April, the City Ground outfit travels to Stamford Bridge to face Chelsea. While following the second leg on 7 May, they host Newcastle United.

Two opponents that are sure to cause plenty of problems as they chase their own European ambitions in the Premier League table.

For the Hammers, it is the ideal scenario, and the scheduling of games could take its toll on Pereira’s squad.

As it stands, the Irons are three points behind Forest, but in the next few weeks they have an excellent chance to climb above them.

Although Mick McCarthy believes West Ham have more reasons to be nervous now.

What is Nottingham Forest’s record after playing in Europe?

Nottingham Forest have not dealt too well with their Thursday to Sunday schedule throughout the season, as they often struggle more than not after their European trips.

Over the season, Forest have won just four of their 13 Premier League games following their Europa League fixtures.

They’ve lost six and drawn three. So, they tend to drop points 69.2 per cent of the time, which will certainly be a good omen for West Ham, with the Tricky Trees still in Europe.

While eyes are currently on either Tottenham or the Irons, perhaps Nottingham Forest could yet be the ones to face the drop instead.