Nottingham Forest 1-1 Liverpool: Wood and Jota on Target as Points Shared at the City Ground

In an intense Premier League encounter at the City Ground, Nottingham Forest and Liverpool battled to a 1-1 draw, with Chris Wood and Diogo Jota finding the net in an engaging clash that saw both sides create numerous opportunities.

First Half:

Forest came out with intent, and their early aggression paid off in just the 8th minute. Anthony Elanga, continuing his fine form, found Chris Wood with a perfectly weighted through ball, slicing through Liverpool’s defence. Wood calmly slotted the ball past Alisson Becker from a tight angle to give the hosts an early lead.

Liverpool responded with urgency. Ryan Gravenberch was a key figure, linking up well with Mohamed Salah, but despite their dominance in possession (70.4%), the Reds failed to convert their numerous chances. Gravenberch himself missed a clear opportunity, firing over the bar after being set up by Salah. Forest’s defense, led by Murillo and Milenkovic, stood firm under pressure, and goalkeeper Sels made crucial interventions when needed.

Forest nearly doubled their lead when Murillo took a speculative shot from distance, narrowly missing the target. Liverpool’s frustration grew as Gibbs-White found himself in the referee’s book following a heated exchange with Dominik Szoboszlai.

Second Half:

Liverpool continued to control possession and pressed for an equalizer. However, Forest’s defense remained resolute. Captain Ryan Yates earned a yellow card for a cynical challenge on Luis Diaz, while Elanga almost caught Alisson off guard with a direct free-kick effort.

The breakthrough for Liverpool came in the 67th minute through substitute Diogo Jota. Just a 22 seconds after entering the pitch, Jota met a Kostas Tsimikas corner with a powerful header, capitalizing on Forest’s zonal marking to level the score. It was the fastest goal by a Liverpool substitute since the 2006/07 season.

Both teams pushed for a winner in the closing stages. Szoboszlai came closest for Liverpool, but Sels pulled off a stunning save to deny the Hungarian’s fierce drive. At the other end, Elanga remained a threat, sending a dangerous ball across the face of goal that narrowly missed a finishing touch.

Despite seven minutes of added time and a late surge from Liverpool, Forest held firm, with Sels making another crucial save from Cody Gakpo to preserve the point.

Key Stats:

• Possession: Forest 30% - 70% Liverpool

• Total Shots: Forest 6 - 23 Liverpool

• Shots on Target: Forest 3 - 7 Liverpool

Conclusion:

Both sides will feel they had chances to claim all three points, but a draw was a fair reflection of a match that showcased quality football and resilient defending. Forest’s unbeaten run at home continues, while Liverpool will be left to rue their missed opportunities as they chase the league leaders.

This result sees Forest maintain their reputation for defensive solidity, boasting the most clean sheets in the league, while Liverpool, despite their attacking prowess, were unable to break through for a decisive second goal. The battle for European places intensifies as the season progresses.