Nottingham Forest claimed a stunning 1-0 victory over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Saturday, with Anthony Elanga scoring the decisive goal in the second half.
The hosts dominated possession throughout the game, but they were unable to create many clear-cut chances, as Forest defended stoutly. The visitors took the lead in the 48th minute when Elanga was put through on goal by Taiwo Awoniyi and he coolly slotted the ball past goalkeeper Robert Sanchez.
Chelsea pushed for an equaliser, but they were unable to find a way through Forest’s defense. The result leaves Chelsea in seventh place in the table, while Forest move up to fourth.
The match
The match started with Chelsea on the front foot, but they were unable to create any real chances. Forest, on the other hand, were happy to sit back and absorb the pressure.
The first half was largely uneventful, with neither side creating any clear-cut chances. The closest either team came to scoring was in the 38th minute, when Mason Mount fired a shot just wide of the post.
The second half began much like the first, with Chelsea dominating possession but struggling to create chances. However, the visitors took the lead in the 48th minute when Elanga was put through on goal by Awoniyi and he coolly slotted the ball past Sanchez.
Chelsea responded well to the goal and pushed for an equaliser, but they were unable to find a way through Forest’s defense. The visitors held on for the win, and they will be looking to build on this result in their next match.
The key players
- Anthony Elanga: The young forward was the difference-maker for Forest, scoring the winning goal and causing problems for the Chelsea defense all afternoon.
- Taiwo Awoniyi: The Nigerian striker was also impressive for Forest, providing the assist for Elanga’s goal and linking up well with his teammates.
- Mason Mount: The Chelsea midfielder was one of the few players who looked capable of creating something for his team, but he was ultimately unable to find the back of the net.
- Reece James: The Chelsea fullback was solid defensively, but he was unable to provide the same attacking threat that he has shown in previous seasons.
The manager’s reaction
- Steve Cooper (Forest manager): “I’m really proud of the players. They were excellent today. We defended well and created chances. We deserved the win.”
- Thomas Tuchel (Chelsea manager): “We were not good enough today. We lacked a bit of spark and creativity. We need to improve, and we will.”
The aftermath
This is a disappointing result for Chelsea, who are still looking for their first win of the season. They will need to improve their attacking play if they want to challenge for the title this year.
Forest, on the other hand, will be looking to build on this result and continue their good form. They are now in fourth place in the table, and they will be hoping to push for a European place this season.
