Liverpool’s hopes for revenge against Nottingham Forest were dashed as the Tricky Trees held them to a 1-1 draw at the City Ground.
Despite their dominance, Liverpool remains unable to secure all three points against Nuno Espírito Santo’s side, with Forest once again showcasing remarkable defensive cohesion.
The match carried an added emotional weight, serving as a reminder of the sour taste left by Forest’s earlier victory – Liverpool’s only Premier League loss this season.
However, despite their efforts, Liverpool failed to erase that lingering frustration, as Forest’s resolute defence held firm to deny them redemption.
Unlike their previous meeting, Nottingham Forest struck the first blow early, finding the net in the 8th minute through a swift and precise counter-attack – a hallmark of their play this season.
Just when it seemed like another frustrating repeat of the events at Anfield, a tactical double substitution by Liverpool involving Diogo Jota and Konstas Tsimikas shifted the momentum.
The duo combined effectively, producing an equalizer just 22 seconds later in the 66th minute, reigniting Liverpool’s hopes for a comeback which was not to be
While Liverpool undoubtedly played the better football, what makes Nottingham Forest’s approach particularly intriguing is the unwavering focus and discipline of their defensive unit.
They held firm against a relentless attacking onslaught for the entire match, and in doing so, they ended Mohamed Salah’s impressive streak of scoring or assisting in 12 consecutive Premier League games.
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Liverpool Struggled to Break Forest’s Defensive Compactness
Nottingham Forest managed just 29% possession, with most of Liverpool’s attacks directed toward their defensive third.
However, by consistently employing a low block and shifting their formation from a 4-2-3-1 to a 5-4-1 when on the back foot, they maintained defensive compactness and unwavering focus throughout the match.
Forest’s centre-backs Murillo and Milenkovic were heavily involved, shouldering a significant workload.
Yet, the defensive effort was not limited to them; the entire team contributed, with attackers dropping back to support and most significantly Ola Aina making a goal-line clearance.
However, the standout performer for the Tricky Trees was undoubtedly Matz Sels, the man between the sticks.
Nottingham Forest’s Unsung Hero
Sels delivered a masterclass in goalkeeping, showcasing his exceptional ability to read the game and act decisively. He produced five crucial saves, with several already in contention for “Save of the Week.”
His quick reactions and commanding presence denied Liverpool repeatedly, including two pivotal one-on-one saves against Diogo Jota that thwarted potential winners.
Fueled by the support of the home crowd and the determination of his teammates, Sels delivered a performance to remember, ensuring Forest walked away with a hard-earned point.
The 32-year-old Belgian goalkeeper has already made 63 saves this season, ranking him 5th among all Premier League goalkeepers. With an impressive total of 9 clean sheets placing him first among all PL Goalkeepers, his contributions have been pivotal.
While the attacking unit has excelled at converting their expected goals (25.7) into 30 actual goals, it’s the defensive efforts led by the in-form Sels – that have truly made the difference.
Sels, in particular, has been a man on a mission, delivering breathtaking saves to ensure the team’s goals truly count.
Liverpool’s start to the Premier League season in the new year has been far from what they envisioned, dropping four crucial points in just two matches.
First, a 2-2 draw against bitter rivals Manchester United, and now another 1-1 draw against Nottingham Forest, where they saw their thirst for revenge thwarted by Forest’s resolute defensive performance.
These back-to-back results have intensified the pressure, with the gap that once seemed wide now shrinking. Arne Slot’s men must respond quickly to regain momentum and stay competitive in the title race.
As for Nottingham Forest, they continue to defy the odds – what once seemed impossible now feels within reach.
A top-four finish is no longer a distant dream, but could we witness a repeat of 2016? Only time will tell.