Both teams are currently outside of the relegation zone but an unlikely scenario could see them face each other in an unprecedented game.
Amie Wilson Sports Writer
13:28, 18 Apr 2026
Leeds United could find themselves in a relegation play-off scenario. (Image: Carl Recine, Getty Images)
Leeds United could be forced into a relegation play-off against Nottingham Forest, should an unlikely set of circumstances unfold. Both clubs currently sit outside the bottom three, but will be keeping a close eye on proceedings below them between now and the end of the season.
Should things not go in their favour, there is a scenario where a play-off would be required to separate the two sides in the table and determine who faces the drop. Should it occur, it would mark the first occasion in Premier League history that such a match has taken place.
The unlikely play-off fixture would come about if the teams finish level on points, goal difference and total goals scored. If they remain equal across all those criteria, it then comes down to the head-to-head record between the two clubs, before, ultimately, the most away goals in the head-to-head record.
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The two meetings this season between Leeds and Forest both ended in a 3-1 victory for the home side. Consequently, the head-to-head record and away goals would not be a deciding factor.
Therefore, if it does come down to the head-to-head record, the only means of separating the two sides would be a one-off play-off match held at a neutral ground.
The victors of that fixture would retain their Premier League status, while the losers would face relegation to the Championship.
While the scenario remains highly improbable, it cannot be entirely ruled out. The sides currently occupy 15th and 16th position in the Premier League table, with Leeds (36 points) sitting three points ahead of Forest (33 points).
Both clubs would need to be overtaken by 18th-place Tottenham (30 points) and 17th-place West Ham (32 points). There are just two goals separating the goal difference between the two sides, while Leeds have netted 49 goals compared to Forest’s 44.
Leeds United came out as 2-1 winners over Manchester United on Monday night. (Image: Michael Regan, Getty Images)
The Whites return to action on Saturday when they welcome Wolves to Elland Road. Forest, meanwhile, host Burnley at the City Ground on Sunday afternoon.
Both clubs will head into their respective fixtures in good spirits, with Leeds having claimed a 2-1 victory over Manchester United on Monday night. Forest, meanwhile, secured their place in the Europa League semi-final on Thursday courtesy of a 1-0 triumph over Porto.
Tottenham, meanwhile, face Brighton and Hove Albion at home in the 5.30pm kick-off on Saturday. West Ham travel to take on Crystal Palace on Monday night (8pm kick-off).
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