The match kicked off with a bang as Forest took the lead within the opening two minutes. A well-timed cross was met by the head of Nikola Milenkovic, who nodded the ball past United goalkeeper André Onana to give Forest a dream start. Despite the early setback, United responded quickly, and by the 18th minute, Rasmus Højlund had restored parity with a clinical finish, following a fluid United attack. Both teams had opportunities to take the lead before the break, with both sides hitting the woodwork, but it was all square at 1-1 as the teams headed into the interval.
After the restart, Forest came out flying. Just two minutes into the second half, Morgan Gibbs-White put them back in front with a long-range strike that Onana should have done better to save. The Forest playmaker's shot from the edge of the box squirmed past the United keeper, putting the visitors 2-1 up. And just moments later, Forest struck again. Chris Wood's header looped over Onana and into the net, with United's defense caught napping once more. It was a clinical display from the away side, who made the most of United's defensive lapses.
United did show signs of a fightback, and just after the hour mark, Bruno Fernandes pulled a goal back for the hosts, finishing off a well-worked move. However, despite increased pressure and several dangerous crosses into the box, United could not find the equalizer. Forest's resolute defense held firm, and they managed to secure all three points in a memorable win.
The result lifts Forest to fifth in the Premier League table, a remarkable position ahead of their next clash with Aston Villa. For United, however, it’s a result that adds to the mounting pressure on manager Ruben Amorim. They remain in 13th place, with the upcoming Manchester derby against rivals City offering little respite from their struggles.
Key Moments:
- 2’: Milenkovic heads Forest into a shock early lead.
- 18’: Højlund equalizes for United with a composed finish.
- 47’: Gibbs-White's low strike puts Forest back in front.
- 52’: Chris Wood’s looping header gives Forest a 3-1 lead.
- 63’: Fernandes pulls one back for United, but they fail to find an equalizer.
What’s Next?
Forest will look to build on this impressive victory when they face Aston Villa next, as they aim to maintain their position in the top half of the table. Meanwhile, United must regroup ahead of the Manchester derby, with questions continuing to swirl around their defensive frailties and overall form.
إرسال تعليق