The Premier League returns with an early kickoff on Saturday, October 18, 2025, as Nottingham Forest host Chelsea at The City Ground in Nottinghamshire. The match begins at 7:30 a.m. ET and will be broadcast live on USA Network, NBC Sports, Universo, and streaming on fuboTV and Peacock.
Match Details
- Fixture: Nottingham Forest vs. Chelsea
- Competition: Premier League — Round 8
- Date: Saturday, October 18, 2025
- Kickoff Time: 7:30 a.m. ET
- Venue: The City Ground — Nottingham, England
- Stadium Capacity: 30,576
- Pitch Surface: Grass
- Weather Forecast: 54°F, Cloudy
How to Watch Live
- TV Channels (U.S.):
- NBC Sports
- USA Network
- Universo / UNIVERSO NOW
- Streaming:
- fuboTV (free trial available)
- Peacock Premium
Fans in the United States can stream the match on fuboTV or Peacock, with coverage beginning shortly before kickoff.
Match Preview
Chelsea enter Round 8 looking to continue their strong form under Mauricio Pochettino, with renewed confidence after several key victories in league play. The Blues have been more fluid in attack and are beginning to look like serious top-four contenders again.
Nottingham Forest, meanwhile, will look to protect home turf at The City Ground — a venue that has proven difficult for top sides. Forest’s defensive organization and high-energy pressing have caused problems for visiting clubs, though consistency in front of goal remains a challenge.
Key Storylines
- Chelsea’s resurgence: With improved form and chemistry among new signings, the Blues will aim to keep climbing the Premier League table.
- Forest’s home strength: Despite mixed away results, Forest have been difficult to beat in Nottingham.
- Early kickoff challenge: Both sides will need to manage intensity in the early morning fixture following midweek training schedules.
Prediction
Chelsea’s quality and depth may ultimately prove decisive, but Forest’s resilience at home suggests this could be closer than expected.
Projected Score: Chelsea 2, Nottingham Forest 1