Nottingham Forest took a major step towards securing Champions League football after a well-earned 2-1 triumph over Tottenham Hotspur at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. The visitors began the day in sixth place but showed clear intent from the first whistle, knowing that three points would lift them back into the top three.
It took just five minutes for Forest to get on the scoresheet. Elliot Anderson’s powerful strike took a deflection off Rodrigo Bentancur and flew past Guglielmo Vicario, giving the away side an early advantage. The hosts struggled to respond and found themselves two goals down by the 16th minute when Chris Wood headed in Anthony Elanga’s cross.
Despite controlling possession for much of the match, Spurs lacked a cutting edge in front of goal. Mathys Tel missed a good opportunity before halftime, and Richarlison, starting for the first time since February, headed over from a promising position.
Tottenham did manage to find the net with just minutes remaining. Richarlison connected with a cross to finally beat Matz Sels, who had earlier produced a brilliant save to deny the Brazilian. However, Forest held on to collect all three points, with Harry Toffolo making a key clearance off the line earlier in the half to preserve the lead.
Clinical approach pushes Forest closer to Europe
Forest’s campaign has been one of efficiency and resilience, and this latest result underlined their ability to thrive under pressure. Although they saw less of the ball, they were highly effective in the attacking third, making the most of limited opportunities.
Wood, who had not scored in the league since mid-February, ended his barren run with a trademark finish. His goal, his 19th of the season, proved vital in a match where chances were at a premium.
The East Midlands side managed only three shots on target during the game but converted two of them. Their direct approach and quick transitions continue to deliver results, keeping them in strong contention for European qualification.
Tottenham’s struggles continue
Spurs were unable to replicate the energy that helped them reach the Europa League semi-finals just days earlier. Sitting 16th in the league table, their domestic form has faltered, and this result marked their 18th defeat of the campaign.
Although Richarlison gave the home crowd something to cheer about with a late goal, the team’s overall display lacked urgency. The hosts were met with boos at the final whistle, a reflection of another frustrating afternoon in the league.
Only the bottom three have suffered more defeats than Tottenham this season, and their total losses now approach a two-decade low point. For a club with European ambitions, success in the Europa League may be their only path to salvaging a disappointing season.
