Forest vs Newcastle: Reds seek redemption at home after UEL exit

Nottingham Forest host Newcastle United at the City Ground today, looking to bounce back from a heartbreaking European exit. 

Forest’s dream of a Europa League final ended on Thursday with a 4-0 thrashing by Aston Villa in the second leg, despite winning the first leg 1-0. Forest currently sit 16th, six points clear of the relegation zone with three matches left.

While relatively safe, Nottingham Forest still needs points to mathematically secure their Premier League status. The Magpies sit 13th with 45 points. 

After a win against Brighton, Eddie Howe’s job is reportedly secure for next season, though Newcastle’s own European qualification hopes are nearly gone. The match features several revenge narratives, as Matz Sels, Chris Wood, and Elliot Anderson all face their former club, Newcastle.

Meanwhile, Anthony Elanga takes the pitch at the City Ground after starring for Forest last season. As of Sunday afternoon, the game is underway. Early highlights saw Newcastle’s William Osula denied by a desperate leg block from Matz Sels.

The encounter is a reunion of sorts featuring former Magpies Matz Sels and Chris Wood in Forest Red, while Anthony Elanga leads the line for the hosts. 

Newcastle will be watching to see how their players respond in the final three matches of the season; with 45 points, they sit six points back of seventh place, and their European hopes are fading fast.

For Forest, the goal is simple: shake off their recent slump and secure their top-flight future before the season’s final whistle.