Chelsea heads into the international break with an unexpected defeat to Nottingham Forest.
Steve Cooper’s team managed to secure a victory against Chelsea in a Premier League showdown that left the home fans angry.
3 Talking Points as Elanga Stuns Stamford Bridge
Elanga’s Brilliance Breaks the Deadlock
The match’s turning point came in the 48th minute when Nottingham Forest’s Anthony Elanga displayed his talent. A perfectly timed through ball from Nigeria’s Taiwo Awoniyi found Elanga, who demonstrated composure and calmly slotted the ball past Chelsea’s Robert Sanchez, putting the visitors in the lead.
Nottingham Forest’s Resolute Defense
Forest victory was built on a solid defensive foundation. Throughout the game, their defense remained organized and well disciplined, frustrating the Blues attacking efforts. The backline, led by Steve Cooper’s tactics, effectively nullified Chelsea’s star-studded forward lineup, earning the visitors a valuable clean sheet and, ultimately, the victory.
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The Blues frustration and wasted efforts
The drama started early in the match, with Chelsea nearly taking the lead within a minute, only to be denied by a sensational recovery challenge from former Blue, Ola Aina. Raheem Sterling, in fine form, attempted to set up Ben Chilwell later in the first half, but Nottingham Forest were lucky as the makeshift winger couldn’t find the finishing touch.
Forest had their chances, notably from high free-kicks into the box. Taiwo Awoniyi came close, but his half-volley agonizingly sailed over the goalkeeper crossbar. Moments later, Awoniyi’s acrobatic overhead kick narrowly missed the target, leaving the home team defense unsettled.
Then, in the second half, the away team seized the initiative. Moises Caicedo’s loose touch was ruthlessly exploited by Orel Mangala and Ryan Yates, setting the stage for Awoniyi’s pass to Elanga, who calmly placed the ball past Robert Sanchez, sealing Nottingham Forest victory.
Chelsea appealed for a penalty late in the game when Matt Turner collided with Nicolas Jackson, but the flag was raised for offside. In the dying minutes, Sterling rounded Joe Worrall and set up Jackson, who surprisingly missed a close-range chance to score.
Deep into stoppage time, Raheem Sterling’s shot flew across the face of goal, providing relief for the traveling Forest fans. Nottingham Forest held on to claim their first win at Stamford Bridge since 1995, marking a historic and unforgettable day for their fans.
