Nottingham Forest’s Champions League ambitions suffered another setback as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on Monday night.
The result leaves Nuno Espírito Santo’s side in sixth place, trailing behind Chelsea and Newcastle United in the race for Champions League qualification. With only the top five Premier League teams qualifying for next season’s elite European competition, Forest’s recent form of just one win in four matches has come at the worst possible time.
In a physical encounter that saw eight players booked, Palace took the lead on the hour mark when Eberechi Eze converted from the penalty spot after a VAR review determined that Forest goalkeeper Matz Sels had fouled Tyrick Mitchell. However, Forest responded quickly, equalizing just four minutes later when Murillo deflected Neco Williams’ goal-bound effort past the Palace goalkeeper.
Both teams had opportunities to secure all three points in the closing stages. Palace’s Eze struck the woodwork in the final moments, while Eddie Nketiah had a potential winner disallowed for offside in stoppage time.
“We were unlucky in a few situations, hitting the post, the offside call, but they fought, and many situations we created,” Palace coach Oliver Glasner reflected after the match. “It’s not easy against a team like Forest, so overall I’m really pleased with the performance today.”
Forest’s remarkable season has seen them consistently challenge near the top of the table, a significant improvement from last year’s relegation battle. Their attacking style under Espírito Santo has won plaudits, though defensive vulnerabilities have occasionally undermined their efforts.
With matches against Manchester United, Liverpool, and Tottenham still to come, Forest face a challenging run-in as they attempt to secure European football for the next season. Even if Champions League qualification proves elusive, a Europa League spot would represent tremendous progress for a club that was in the Championship just two seasons ago.
