Nottingham Forest vs Everton Report

Scorers: Doucoure 90+4’

Abdoulaye Doucouré scored a dramatic 94th-minute winner to hand Everton a priceless 1-0 victory over Nottingham Forest at the City Ground, ending the hosts’ nine-match unbeaten home streak in the Premier League (PL) and condemning them to back-to-back defeats for the first time since January.

First Half Struggles for Both Sides

Nottingham Forest returned to home comforts following a narrow loss to Aston Villa, but their typically vibrant City Ground atmosphere wasn’t enough to ignite a spark in a drab opening half. Neither side managed to establish any real rhythm, with possession shared evenly and attacking quality lacking.

Everton, who came into the clash having drawn more league matches than any other side this season (14), enjoyed more of the ball but did little to test Forest goalkeeper Matz Sels. The visitors looked organised but blunt, while Forest’s own attacking efforts lacked conviction.

Second Half Brings More Urgency

The second period began with renewed intent, particularly from the visitors. Everton began to exploit space behind the Forest backline, and James Tarkowski’s lofted ball nearly played in Iliman Ndiaye, only for Sels to bravely intervene.

Forest responded with a brief flurry of chances midway through the second half. Morgan Gibbs-White registered the hosts’ first real attempt of note, but his low effort was easily gathered by Jordan Pickford. However, Forest’s sporadic pressure did little to turn the tide, and the atmosphere began to sour as the home crowd grew increasingly restless.

Late Drama at the City Ground

Everton, sensing an opportunity, pushed forward with growing confidence. Neco Williams bravely blocked a goal-bound Doucouré strike, while Jack Harrison came within inches of a breakthrough, spinning on the edge of the area and rattling the crossbar with a looping effort.

Just as the game appeared to be heading for a stalemate, the Toffees struck in the dying moments. Breaking swiftly from a Forest corner, Everton caught their hosts exposed at the back. Doucouré, played through with precision, kept his composure to slot a cool finish inside the near post and send the travelling supporters into raptures.

What It Means

The result adds fresh pressure on Forest, whose top-five aspirations and hopes of UEFA Champions League qualification have taken a significant dent with consecutive losses. With rivals closing the gap, their strong home form—once a cornerstone of their campaign—now appears more vulnerable than ever.

For Everton, this victory is a timely boost and could prove pivotal in the Toffees’ push for European qualification. It marks their first win since mid-February and sees them leapfrog Tottenham Hotspur in the standings, now sitting level on points with Manchester United.

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Nott’m Forest v Everton, 2024/25 | Premier League