Red Devils’ Wastefulness Proves Costly as Forest Cling to Champions League Chase
Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim cut a frustrated figure after his side slumped to a 1-0 defeat at Nottingham Forest, admitting his players “helped” Nuno Espírito Santo’s men secure a vital victory at the City Ground.
Anthony Elanga’s stunning early strike proved the difference, leaving United chasing the game despite mustering 23 shots—only six of which tested Forest’s rock-solid defense. A late flurry of substitutions, including the desperate introduction of Harry Maguire as an emergency striker, failed to break Forest’s resolve as the hosts held firm to maintain their status as the Premier League’s tightest home defense (just 10 goals conceded).
“We controlled the game but knew they could score from nothing,” Amorim told TNT Sports. “After their goal, we played into their hands. We created chances, but the final pass, the final cross—it wasn’t there. Without that quality, you don’t score.”
The Portuguese boss didn’t mince words about his team’s shortcomings: “We should’ve won, not just drawn. But in the end, we gifted them three points.” He singled out Elanga’s opener as particularly galling, acknowledging it allowed Forest to sit deep and exploit transitions—a scenario they relished.
Despite the setback, Amorim insisted he sees progress in United’s performances, though results remain elusive. “I don’t lie to myself—we’re improving, but we must start winning,” he said, shifting focus to upcoming Europa League and Premier League fixtures.
Meanwhile, Rio Ferdinand heaped praise on Forest’s remarkable spirit, which has propelled them to third place. “The connection between fans and players is unreal,” the pundit raved. “Every player fights for the badge, and their discipline is spot-on. This isn’t luck—they’re fully deserving of their position.”
For United, the defeat leaves them languishing in 13th, their struggles in front of goal laid bare. For Forest, the dream of Champions League football edges closer to reality.
Similar Posts:
- Time is Not a Luxury – Amorim Admits Pressure Mounts After Another Man United Defeat (video)
- Nottingham Forest Stun Manchester United in Thrilling 3-2 Victory at Old Trafford
- Manchester City End Winless Streak with Commanding Victory Over Nottingham Forest
- Guardiola Defends Ederson After Manchester City’s Shock Defeat to Nottingham Forest
- Amorim Reflects on “Long Journey” After United’s Chaotic Loss to Forest
