Nottingham Forest produced one of their most complete performances of the season as they defeated Tottenham Hotspur 3-0 in the Premier League at the City Ground. The victory moved Forest five points clear of the relegation zone and underlined the steady progress the club has made in recent weeks.
Tottenham, meanwhile, suffered another damaging setback, with a poor display that raised further questions about their consistency and direction this season.
Forest Start Brightly and Control the Tempo
From the opening whistle, Nottingham Forest played with confidence and intensity. The home side pressed Tottenham high up the pitch, closed down passing lanes, and forced errors in dangerous areas.
Forest nearly took the lead early on when Ibrahim Sangaré rose highest to meet a corner. His header struck the post, and Guglielmo Vicario was forced into a sharp save from the rebound. That early chance set the tone for what was to come.
Tottenham struggled to settle and were unable to cope with Forest’s energy in midfield.
Vicario Error Gifts Forest the Opening Goal
The breakthrough came in the 28th minute and was the result of sustained pressure. A loose pass from Vicario put young defender Archie Gray under immediate pressure. Sangaré reacted quickly, won the ball on the edge of the box, and played it into the path of Callum Hudson-Odoi.
Hudson-Odoi made no mistake, calmly slotting the ball into the net to give Forest a deserved lead.
Tottenham attempted to respond but lacked creativity and urgency. Their passing was slow, and Forest remained well organised at the back.
Hudson-Odoi Doubles the Lead After the Break
Forest continued where they left off in the second half. Just five minutes after the restart, Hudson-Odoi struck again. His cross from the left wing drifted awkwardly toward goal and sailed over Vicario, dropping into the far corner of the net.
The goal stunned Tottenham and lifted the City Ground crowd, who sensed a special night for the home side.
Forest remained disciplined, limiting Spurs to possession in non-dangerous areas and defending comfortably.
Spurs Fail to Mount a Comeback
Despite making changes, Tottenham showed little sign of a comeback. Key attacking players were largely anonymous, and Forest goalkeeper John Victor was rarely tested.
Richarlison struggled to get involved, while Xavi Simons found little space to operate. Forest’s midfield continued to win duels and break up play, frustrating the visitors.
Sangaré Adds a Stunning Third Goal
Any remaining doubt was removed late in the match when Sangaré capped off an outstanding performance. Picking up the ball 25 yards from goal, he unleashed a powerful strike that crashed in off the post, sending the home fans into celebration.
The goal was a fitting reward for Forest’s dominance throughout the match.
Forest Growing Stronger Under Sean Dyche
Since Sean Dyche took charge in October, Nottingham Forest have shown greater structure and resilience. The team has now lost just three matches under his leadership and has responded positively to each setback.
This victory followed an impressive European away win earlier in the week and suggested that recent defeats were only temporary setbacks.
Forest remain in a battle to stay in the Premier League, but performances like this offer real encouragement.
Tottenham’s Problems Resurface
For Tottenham, this defeat highlighted familiar problems. After recent wins suggested progress, this performance showed how fragile that improvement remains.
While Vicario’s mistakes were costly, the issues extended beyond the goalkeeper. Spurs were second best across the pitch and struggled to match Forest’s intensity.
Manager Thomas Frank will demand a response from his players, but consistency continues to be a major concern.
What This Result Means
The win gives Nottingham Forest valuable breathing space in the relegation fight and boosts confidence heading into the busy festive period.
For Tottenham, the defeat leaves them stuck in mid-table and facing renewed pressure to find solutions quickly.
Final Verdict
Nottingham Forest fully deserved their 3-0 victory with a display built on energy, discipline, and clinical finishing. Tottenham, by contrast, endured a difficult night and must address their shortcomings if they hope to move forward this season.