Football

Manchester United's interim manager, Ruud van Nistelrooy, ended his brief tenure with a resounding 3-0 victory over Leicester City on Sunday. The win marked United's fourth consecutive unbeaten match under Van Nistelrooy, who took over after the dismissal of Erik ten Hag.Bruno Fernandes, celebrating his 250th appearance for United, opened the scoring with a powerful strike after a clever exchange with Amad Diallo. Fernandes's involvement continued in the second goal, as his touch deflected off Leicester defender Victor Kristiansen and into the net for an own goal.Diallo, who impressed with a brace in United's Europa League victory over PAOK, earned a starting berth ahead of Alejandro Garnacho. The Argentine substitute made an immediate impact, scoring a stunning goal into the top corner to seal the win.United's victory lifted them to 13th in the Premier League standings, just three points behind fifth-placed Tottenham Hotspur. However, Spurs suffered a shock 2-1 defeat at home to newly promoted Ipswich Town.Ipswich's victory was their first in the Premier League since their return to the top flight after a 22-year absence. Sammie Szmodics and Liam Delap scored the goals for the visitors, while Rodrigo Bentancur's late header proved to be a mere consolation for Spurs.Nottingham Forest's impressive run came to an end with a 3-1 home defeat to Newcastle United. Murillo's early header gave Forest the lead, but Newcastle fought back with goals from Alexander Isak, Joelinton, and Harvey Barnes.Arsenal and Chelsea, both 10 points behind leaders Liverpool, will be desperate for victories when they face off later on Sunday. Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard will make his first start in two months as the Gunners aim to end their three-game winless streak in the Premier League.

Nottingham Forest's remarkable resurgence has propelled them to their highest Premier League position in over two decades. After enduring a turbulent season last year, the two-time European Cup winners have defied expectations to sit third in the standings, just behind leaders Liverpool.Under the guidance of manager Nuno Espirito Santo, Forest have recorded three consecutive top-flight victories for the first time since 1999. Their impressive run includes a historic win at Anfield, where they stunned Liverpool 1-0.New Zealand striker Chris Wood has been instrumental in Forest's success, scoring eight of their 14 Premier League goals this season. The 32-year-old has netted 22 times in 30 league starts since joining from Newcastle in 2023.Forest's defense has also been solid, with goalkeeper Matz Sels keeping the most clean sheets in the league this season. Serbian defender Nikola Milenkovic has formed a formidable partnership with Brazilian Murillo at the heart of the backline.Nuno's arrival has been a catalyst for Forest's resurgence. Despite his previous struggles at Tottenham and Wolves, the Portuguese coach has silenced the doubters and proven to be a shrewd appointment.The club's volatile owner, Evangelos Marinakis, has also played a role in Forest's success. Despite a recent five-game ban for spitting towards officials, Marinakis' ambition to grow the club has created a positive environment.The imminent arrival of Edu, who left Arsenal as sporting director, is a testament to Marinakis' commitment to improving the club. Forest are now dreaming of European competition for the first time since 1995-96.However, Nuno remains focused on the present and demands even more from his players. "We have to recognize there are a lot of mistakes being made that we have to correct," he said. "Keeping on track is what we have to do."Forest face a challenging run of fixtures before the turn of the year, including trips to Arsenal, Manchester City, and Manchester United. But their impressive start to the season suggests they are capable of holding their own against the league's top teams.

Chris Wood's brace propelled Nottingham Forest to a resounding 3-1 victory over Leicester City in a thrilling East Midlands derby at the King Power Stadium. The New Zealand striker's goals condemned his former manager, Steve Cooper, to defeat in his first encounter with Forest since his dismissal in December.Forest seized the initiative early on, with Ryan Yates capitalizing on a defensive lapse by Leicester to curl a low strike into the bottom corner. However, the Foxes responded swiftly, with Jamie Vardy equalizing from close range after a teasing cross from Harry Winks.The second half witnessed a flurry of action, with Wood restoring Forest's lead with a deft finish after controlling Elliot Anderson's pass. Leicester's appeals for a penalty were waved away, and Wood punished their poor defending once more, heading home a long punt from Matz Sels.The victory marked Forest's second consecutive win and lifted them into fifth place in the Premier League standings. They have lost just once in nine league games this season, vindicating their decision to replace Cooper with Nuno Espirito Santo.Cooper, who spent two years in charge of Forest, guiding them back to the Premier League after a 23-year absence, expressed disappointment with his team's performance. "It's self-inflicted, no doubt about that," he said. "We made poor mistakes for the goals."Nuno, serving the second game of a suspension, watched from the press box as his team secured a memorable victory. "Chris deserves his plaudits," he said. "He's done an amazing job. He's very honest and he gives everything on the pitch for us."

Chelsea's five-match winning streak came to an end on Sunday as they were held to a 1-1 draw by 10-man Nottingham Forest at Stamford Bridge. Noni Madueke's equalizer rescued a point for the Blues after Chris Wood had given Forest an early second-half lead.Despite fielding a changed starting lineup, Chelsea struggled to create clear-cut chances in the first half. Forest, on the other hand, looked dangerous on the counterattack and took the lead through Wood's close-range finish.Chelsea responded well to the setback and equalized through Madueke's fine strike in the 57th minute. The hosts pushed for a winner but were unable to break down a resolute Forest defense.Forest's task became even more difficult when James Ward-Prowse was sent off for a second bookable offense in the 78th minute. However, Chelsea failed to capitalize on their numerical advantage and were frustrated by a series of missed chances.The draw leaves Chelsea in fourth place in the Premier League, but it is a setback in their hopes of challenging for the title. Forest, meanwhile, remain in the relegation zone but will take heart from their performance against one of the league's top teams.

Arne Slot's honeymoon period at Liverpool has come to an abrupt end following a disappointing 1-0 home defeat to Nottingham Forest. The Dutchman, who succeeded Jurgen Klopp, now faces the daunting task of restoring the Reds' European dominance while balancing his own tactical vision with the expectations of the club and its supporters.Liverpool's return to the Champions League after a year's absence has been met with a challenging draw. They will face AC Milan, Real Madrid, Bayer Leverkusen, and PSV Eindhoven, all formidable opponents with a rich history in the competition. The Reds' struggles against Forest, who defended resolutely with 11 men behind the ball, have exposed cracks in their attacking prowess.Despite enjoying nearly 70% possession, Liverpool lacked the necessary spark to break down Forest's defense. Slot expressed frustration at his team's inability to create clear-cut chances, highlighting the need for improvement in their ball retention and attacking efficiency.The defeat has cast a shadow over the positive start Slot had made to his tenure. Liverpool had won their opening three Premier League games without conceding, but the Forest loss has raised questions about their ability to adapt to different styles of play.Slot must now strike a delicate balance between imposing his own style and maintaining the support of the players and fans. He has emphasized the importance of consistency in preparation and attitude, regardless of the result.The international break provides a brief respite for Liverpool, but the return of key players like Luis Diaz and Alexis Mac Allister will be crucial in addressing their attacking deficiencies. Mohamed Salah remains a vital cog in the team, but Slot must find ways to reduce the reliance on the Egyptian, who is entering the final year of his contract.Captain Virgil van Dijk has called for a "reality check" after the Forest defeat, acknowledging the need for improvement to achieve their goals this season. The contrast between Liverpool's performances in recent games has highlighted the challenges Slot faces in transitioning the team while maintaining their competitive edge.

Nottingham Forest pulled off a stunning upset on Saturday, September 14, 2024, as they defeated Liverpool 1-0 at Anfield. The victory marked Forest's first at the iconic stadium since 1969 and sent shockwaves through the Premier League.Liverpool dominated the opening half, but their profligacy in front of goal proved costly. Luis Diaz and Dominik Szoboszlai both came close to breaking the deadlock, but their efforts went wide. Forest goalkeeper Matz Sels also made a series of crucial saves to keep the Reds at bay.The second half saw a more determined Forest side emerge. They pressed Liverpool high up the pitch and created several chances of their own. In the 72nd minute, substitute Callum Hudson-Odoi received a brilliant crossfield ball from Anthony Elanga and curled a superb effort past Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson.Liverpool threw everything forward in search of an equalizer, but Forest held firm. Virgil van Dijk's late header flew over the bar, and the Reds were left to rue their missed opportunities.The victory was a major statement of intent from Forest, who have now won their first three league games under new coach Arne Slot. Liverpool, on the other hand, were left to lick their wounds after a disappointing performance.

Manchester City's dominance in the English Premier League (EPL) was put to the test by Nottingham Forest, a team languishing in the lower half of the table. Despite City's superior position, Forest proved to be a formidable opponent, showcasing the unpredictability of the EPL.City's early dominance was met with resilience from Forest, who counter-attacked effectively and kept the City defense on their toes. The deadlock was broken in the 32nd minute when Gvardiol headed in a corner, demonstrating his exceptional vision and movement.Nottingham Forest refused to be disheartened and continued to threaten City's goal. Woods and Murillo missed golden opportunities to equalize, leaving the City faithful on edge. The first half ended with City holding a slender 1-0 lead, but the match was far from over.The second half began with Forest continuing their attacking intent. Elanga's cross found Wood, but his delayed tap-in was too weak. Pep Guardiola responded by introducing Erling Haaland, who proved to be the catalyst for City's second goal. De Bruyne's pass found Haaland in the box, and the Norwegian striker used his deft footwork to beat Murillo and fire the ball into the far corner.Forest continued to press, but City's defense held firm, and the match ended 2-0 in favor of the reigning champions. Despite their victory, City were not at their brilliant best, highlighting the competitive nature of the EPL.

Arsenal's quest for a rare double over Manchester City on Sunday could prove pivotal in the Premier League title race. The Gunners, currently atop the standings, face a daunting task at the Etihad Stadium, where City has been invincible in 38 home games across all competitions.Arsenal's lone victory over City this season came at the Emirates in October, but their overall record against the reigning champions remains dismal. However, Mikel Arteta's side has shown resilience and maturity this season, suggesting they may be better equipped to handle the pressure of a title challenge.Meanwhile, Liverpool, who trail Arsenal on goal difference, will be hoping for a slip-up from both title rivals when they host Brighton at Anfield. The Reds' focus has shifted to the league after their FA Cup exit, and they will be confident of extending their unbeaten home record against Brighton.At the other end of the table, Nottingham Forest face an uphill battle after being docked four points for breaching financial rules. The punishment has plunged them into the relegation zone, and they will be desperate for a positive result against Crystal Palace on Saturday.Forest's situation highlights the uncertainty surrounding the relegation battle, with Everton also facing potential further punishment for financial irregularities. The punishments have added an extra layer of pressure to the already intense fight to avoid the drop.

Liverpool's relentless pursuit of victories continues despite facing a barrage of injuries and relying heavily on academy prospects. In a thrilling encounter at Nottingham Forest, Darwin Nunez emerged as the hero, scoring a dramatic header in the ninth minute of stoppage time to secure a 1-0 victory. This triumph marks Liverpool's sixth consecutive win across all competitions and their fourth in an 11-day span, including an extra-time victory over Chelsea in the English League Cup final.Jurgen Klopp, who will depart Liverpool at the end of the season, expressed his astonishment at the team's recent success. "If you'd told me 12 days ago we would win all four games, I would have said no chance," he remarked. "In the circumstances, winning the games is ridiculous."Manchester City, currently in second place, will aim to close the gap to Liverpool to one point when they face Manchester United in the derby on Sunday. The highly anticipated clash between Liverpool and City at Anfield on March 10 looms large on the horizon.Despite Liverpool's injury woes gradually easing, key players such as Mohamed Salah, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Diogo Jota, and Curtis Jones remain sidelined. Klopp opted to start 19-year-old Bobby Clark in midfield alongside Joe Gomez, who was deployed as a defender. Jayden Danns, an 18-year-old forward, made his league debut as a second-half substitute."What the boys have squeezed out was special," Klopp said. "This game didn't go easy for us. We didn't have a great rhythm and the boys felt the intensity for the first time."Post-match scenes at Nottingham Forest were marred by anger among players and coaching staff, with club owner Evangelos Marinakis expressing his displeasure on the touchline. Forest's complaints stemmed from the eight minutes of added time awarded by the referee and the fact that they were not given the ball back after Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate sustained a head injury just before the goal.In other Premier League action, Arsenal, who trail City by a point in third, will visit last-placed Sheffield United on Monday. Chelsea's hopes of giving Mauricio Pochettino a victory on his 52nd birthday were dashed as they were held to a 2-2 draw at Brentford. The Blues' away contingent expressed their dissatisfaction with Pochettino, chanting the name of former manager Jose Mourinho and calling for the Argentine's departure.Aston Villa maintained their grip on fourth place with an 89th-minute winner at Luton, responding to Tottenham's come-from-behind 3-1 victory over Crystal Palace. Lucas Digne's header sealed a 3-2 win for Villa, who remain five points ahead of Tottenham but have played one game more.