Aston Villa vs Nottingham Forest: The Definitive Clash of Midlands Royalty

Aston Villa and Nottingham Forest are two of the most storied clubs in English football, sharing a fierce Midlands rivalry and a rare distinction: both have been crowned champions of Europe. This fixture, which first took place in the 1880-81 FA Cup, has seen over 135 competitive meetings across the top three tiers of English football and domestic cups. As of early 2026, Aston Villa holds the historical upper hand with 64 victories compared to Nottingham Forest’s 40, while 31 matches have ended in a draw. The rivalry is defined by its deep roots in the late 1970s and early 1980s, a golden era when these two clubs combined for three consecutive European Cup titles between 1979 and 1982.

In this comprehensive guide, you will learn about the statistical breakdown of their head-to-head record, the most iconic matches in their 145-year history, and practical information for fans attending the next match at Villa Park or the City Ground. From the legendary 5-5 draw in 2018 to their recent Premier League battles under Unai Emery and Nuno Espírito Santo, we cover every angle of this historic rivalry. Whether you are looking for ticket prices, travel advice, or deep-dive tactical history, this article provides the authoritative resource for one of the Premier League’s most fascinating matchups.

Historical Head-to-Head Statistics

The statistical history of Aston Villa versus Nottingham Forest reflects a matchup that has largely been played in the top flight of English football. In 135 total meetings, the goal tally favors the Villans, who have scored significantly more than their Nottinghamshire counterparts. Villa’s home dominance is particularly notable; they have not lost a league game to Forest at Villa Park in over 30 years, with the Reds’ last victory in the second city occurring back in October 1994.

In recent years, the gap has remained competitive despite Villa’s rise toward the Champions League spots. The 2025-26 season saw a clinical 3-1 win for Aston Villa at home in January 2026, featuring a brace from John McGinn. However, Forest proved their mettle in December 2024 with a 2-1 turnaround victory at the City Ground, proving that while Villa may hold the historical edge, the “Tricky Trees” are always capable of an upset on their own turf.

Win-Loss-Draw Record

• Total Matches Played: 135
• Aston Villa Wins: 64
• Nottingham Forest Wins: 40
• Draws: 31

Scoring Trends

Statistically, this fixture is known for producing goals, with over 69% of recent matches featuring more than 2.5 goals. Both teams have struggled for clean sheets in this specific matchup, with Forest keeping a shutout in only 8% of recent encounters and Villa managing just 15%. This trend makes it a favorite for neutral fans seeking attacking football.

The Golden Era: Ruling Europe

The late 1970s and early 1980s represent the absolute peak for both clubs, a time when the Midlands was the epicenter of world football. Nottingham Forest, under the legendary Brian Clough, achieved the unthinkable by winning the First Division title in 1978 and following it up with back-to-back European Cups in 1979 and 1980. Their success set the bar for neighboring clubs and remains one of the greatest underdog stories in sporting history.

Aston Villa responded in kind, winning the league title in 1981 and capturing the European Cup in 1982 by defeating Bayern Munich in Rotterdam. This five-year window, where the trophy stayed within a 50-mile radius in the English Midlands, remains a point of immense pride for both fanbases. This shared heritage as European champions adds a layer of prestige to their modern-day meetings that few other Premier League fixtures can claim.

Iconic Matches in History

While the European triumphs defined their status, individual matches between the two have often been chaotic and high-scoring affairs. Perhaps no game captures this better than the November 2018 Championship meeting at Villa Park. In a match that has since become legendary, the teams played out a 5-5 draw, with Tammy Abraham scoring four goals for Villa and Forest letting a late lead slip in a ten-goal spectacular.

Another significant result occurred in September 1986, when Nottingham Forest recorded their biggest-ever win in the fixture, a 6-0 drubbing of Villa in the First Division. Conversely, one of Villa’s most cherished modern results was a 4-2 victory in February 2024, a game that solidified their push for European qualification and showcased the tactical gulf that had opened during Unai Emery’s transformation of the club.

Most Recent Results (2024-2026)

Practical Information for Fans

Attending an Aston Villa vs Nottingham Forest match requires careful planning, as tickets for this regional clash are highly sought after by both home fans and traveling supporters. The proximity of the two cities—only about 50 miles apart—makes for a vibrant atmosphere with a large away following typically making the short trip across the A42.

Ticket Prices and Availability

Tickets for this fixture are usually categorized as “Grade B” or “Grade A,” depending on the season’s stakes. For the 2025-26 season, standard adult tickets at Villa Park ranged from £30 to £55, while away tickets were capped at the Premier League standard of £30. Season ticket holders and members receive priority, and general sale is rare for this specific matchup.

Travel and Transportation

• To Villa Park: The stadium is best reached by train via Aston Station or Witton Station, both of which are a 5-10 minute walk from the ground. For those driving, official parking is limited, so many fans use the “Park & Ride” services from the outskirts of Birmingham.
• To the City Ground: Located on the banks of the River Trent, the stadium is a 15-minute walk from Nottingham Railway Station. It is widely considered one of the most scenic stadium locations in England, and fans often congregate in the nearby West Bridgford area pre-match.

What to Expect on Matchday

Expect a high-intensity atmosphere with plenty of vocal banter between the “European Royalty” of the Midlands. Security is usually heightened for this fixture due to the regional rivalry, but it remains a generally family-friendly environment. Fans are advised to arrive at least 60 to 90 minutes before kickoff to clear security and enjoy the pre-match build-up.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who has won more trophies, Aston Villa or Nottingham Forest? 

Aston Villa currently holds more total trophies, with 20 domestic and international honors compared to Nottingham Forest’s 10. However, Forest famously has more European Cups, having won two (1979, 1980) to Villa’s one (1982).

When is the next Aston Villa vs Nottingham Forest match? 

The next scheduled meeting is on April 11, 2026, at the City Ground. The match is part of the 2025-26 Premier League season and is expected to be a crucial fixture for both clubs’ league positions.

What is the “European Cup” connection between the two? 

Both clubs are among an elite group of English teams to have won the European Cup (now the UEFA Champions League). Between 1979 and 1982, the trophy was won by either Forest or Villa in three out of four years.

Where can I buy tickets for the away section? 

Away tickets must be purchased through the visiting club’s official ticket office. For Forest fans visiting Villa Park, the club typically receives an allocation of approximately 3,000 tickets.

What was the highest-scoring game between Villa and Forest? 

The highest-scoring modern game was a 5-5 draw in the Championship in November 2018. Historically, a 7-3 victory for Aston Villa in December 1903 also stands as one of the most goal-heavy encounters.

How far is Birmingham from Nottingham? 

The two cities are approximately 50 miles apart. The journey typically takes about 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes by car via the M42 and A42, or roughly the same by train.

Who are the top scorers in this fixture? 

Historically, players like Tammy Abraham and John McGinn have performed well in recent years. In the distant past, legendary figures from the 1900s held the scoring records during the era of high-scoring First Division football.

Is this considered a major derby? 

While both teams have more intense local derbies (Villa vs Birmingham City and Forest vs Derby County), this is considered a significant “Midlands Derby” due to the historical success and proximity of the two clubs.

What is the capacity of Villa Park and the City Ground? 

Villa Park has a capacity of approximately 42,682, though expansion plans are often discussed. The City Ground holds roughly 30,445 supporters, with its own stadium redevelopment projects currently underway.

Can I take a stadium tour on matchday? 

No, stadium tours at both Villa Park and the City Ground are generally suspended on matchdays. It is recommended to book a tour for a weekday or non-match weekend to see the trophy rooms and dressing areas.

Final Thoughts

As the 2025-26 season progresses, the rivalry between Aston Villa and Nottingham Forest continues to be a cornerstone of Midlands football culture. For Villa, the fixture has become a platform to demonstrate their credentials as a modern Champions League contender, while for Forest, it represents a chance to re-establish themselves as a consistent top-flight force capable of toppling the elite. The technical evolution seen in their January 2026 meeting, where Villa triumphed 3-1, highlights the high-octane, tactical nature of contemporary Premier League football between these two sides.

Looking ahead, the next chapter of this historic clash is set for April 11, 2026, at the City Ground. With both clubs boasting ambitious owners and a commitment to stadium redevelopment—including Forest’s ongoing plans for the Peter Taylor Stand and Villa’s expansion of the North Stand—the infrastructure surrounding this fixture is beginning to match its storied history. This matchup is no longer just a nostalgic nod to their shared 1980s glory; it is a vital, high-stakes encounter that frequently impacts both European qualification and the survival race.

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