Nottingham Forest still control Champions League fate, says Nuno Espirito Santo

In Nottingham, England, Nottingham Forest faced a disappointing defeat against Everton on Saturday, April 12, 2025. The pivotal match ended in a 1-0 loss for Forest, with the only goal scored by Abdoulaye Doucoure during injury time. This marked Forest's second consecutive defeat, following a prior loss at Aston Villa, which has jeopardized their position in the top five of the league. Manager Nuno Espirito Santo expressed his surprise at the team's underperformance, acknowledging that Everton outperformed them and maintained pressure throughout the match. Despite the setbacks, Espirito Santo emphasized that the qualification for the Champions League remains within Forest's control, urging his players to improve in their upcoming games. Goalkeeper Matz Sels echoed this sentiment, describing the remaining matches as crucial finals in their quest to secure a spot for the Champions League. He called for the team to focus on the last six games, aiming to regain momentum amid the rising pressure of the season's conclusion. Sels recognized the need for concentration and commitment from all players to enhance their chances of finishing the season on a high note. The team has enjoyed a good season thus far, yet the recent defeats have created an environment of anxiety among the players and fans. Fans were visibly concerned during the match, aware of the critical nature of this point in the season. Everton's manager, David Moyes, praised his team's performance after securing their first win since mid-February, describing the victory as essential for their confidence. Moyes suggested that Nottingham Forest could serve as inspiration for his side in the future. Doucoure’s goal not only marked a vital win for Everton but also injected belief back into the squad, strengthening their resolve as they continue their campaign in the league. This late win for Everton remains a pivotal moment in their season, serving as a springboard for future matches, as they look to build on this success in hopes of avoiding relegation. As Nottingham Forest prepares for the final stretch of the season, they must address their recent form and the rising tension surrounding their Champions League aspirations. Both players and management recognize the need for significant improvement and determination to ensure they qualify for Europe’s premier competition next season. The upcoming week is seen as a critical time for preparation and focus, allowing the team to regroup and develop a strategy to reclaim their position in the standings.