Explore the excitement of Anthony Elanga’s last-minute goal that secured Forest’s position in fourth place in the Premier League 2024-25. Read more now!
Introduction:
In a thrilling Premier League encounter, Nottingham Forest staged a dramatic late comeback to claim a 2-1 victory over Aston Villa, propelling themselves into the top four. Substitute Anthony Elanga emerged as the hero, scoring deep into stoppage time to cap off a sensational turnaround.
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The win at the City Ground highlighted Forest’s growing credentials as a European contender, while Villa was left to rue defensive lapses that extended their poor away form.
Cagey Start with Few First-Half Chances
Both teams approached the match with caution, aware that a victory would temporarily secure a Champions League spot. The opening half saw few opportunities, with Forest center-back Murillo’s header from Elliot Anderson’s corner the closest either side came to breaking the deadlock.
The tension carried into the second half, but it was Aston Villa who struck first. In the 63rd minute, Jhon Duran, a halftime substitute for Ollie Watkins, soared to meet John McGinn’s precise cross, delivering a superb floating header past Forest keeper Matz Sels.
See also: Chris Wood’s Hat-Trick Powers Forest to Historic 7-0 Win
Forest Denied by VAR
Forest appeared to have equalized with just eight minutes left on the clock. Chris Wood converted Anthony Elanga’s low cross, sending the home crowd into raptures. However, a VAR review determined that Elanga was offside in the buildup, overturning the goal and momentarily dashing Forest’s hopes.
Despite the setback, Forest refused to relent. Their persistence paid off in the 87th minute when Nikola Milenkovic powered a header over the line from Anderson’s well-placed corner, leaving Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez helpless.
Anthony Elanga’s Heroics Seal the Victory
The City Ground erupted four minutes into stoppage time as Anthony Elanga capitalized on a determined run by Anderson. Reaching the byline, Anderson delivered a precise pass that Elanga calmly side-footed into the net, completing Forest’s remarkable comeback. The goal ensured Forest leapfrogged Manchester City into fourth place, sitting on 28 points—three ahead of Villa.
Forest’s Resilience and Home Fortress
The victory underlines Nottingham Forest’s transformation under Nuno Espírito Santo. Once considered relegation candidates, Forest is now a team to watch in the Premier League’s upper echelons. Their home form has been instrumental, winning four of their last five matches at the City Ground.
Saturday’s game also marked a significant mental shift. Forest had previously struggled when starting the day in the top five, losing six consecutive games in such scenarios. This time, however, they displayed grit, determination, and quality to earn a vital win.
Villa’s Struggles Persist
Aston Villa’s away woes continued as they slumped to their fourth consecutive Premier League defeat on the road. While Unai Emery’s side showed flashes of brilliance, including Duran’s sublime header, their defensive frailties ultimately cost them.
Villa’s inability to manage Forest’s late pressure was evident in both goals. Milenkovic was left unmarked for the equalizer, and the defensive lapses allowed Elanga to find space in stoppage time.
One bright spot for Villa was the performance of Jhon Duran. The Colombian forward showcased his talent with a composed header and has now scored in all five of his starts for Villa across competitions this season. However, defensive improvements will be crucial as Villa prepares to face Manchester City next weekend.
Referee Decisions Spark Debate
Villa felt aggrieved by several key decisions. Morgan Rogers’ penalty appeal after contact from Anderson in the first half was waved away, and Villa players protested a potential foul by Anderson on Matty Cash in the lead-up to Forest’s winner. However, referee Samuel Barrott stood firm, and Forest’s celebrations ensued.
Looking Ahead
Forest’s European dream continues as they prepare to face Brentford in their next Premier League outing. Nuno Espírito Santo will aim to build on this momentum and secure a historic top-four finish for the club.
For Villa, it’s back to the drawing board. They must shore up their defense and rediscover their form ahead of a daunting clash with Manchester City. Unai Emery will look to Duran and McGinn to provide the spark while addressing the team’s worrying away record.