Manchester City’s hopes of securing Champions League qualification took a significant hit after a 1-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest. Despite dominating possession with nearly 70%, City managed only three shots on target, while Forest’s well-organized defense and counterattacking prowess proved decisive once again. Callum Hudson-Odoi scored the winner, adding another high-profile scalp to Forest’s impressive season.
City’s manager acknowledged the challenge ahead, emphasizing that qualification remains in their hands but will require greater consistency. The defending Premier League champions have struggled in recent weeks, winning only four of their last nine games while suffering five defeats.
“We have to win games,” he admitted. “We don’t win enough games in a row to be secure. We have 10 games left; we have to win a lot to qualify. This is how it is. To find a way, we have to play better. We have to do something; it doesn’t come from the sky.”
While City focused on their fight to secure a top-five finish, Forest continued their remarkable campaign. The victory strengthened their hold on a Champions League place, moving them five points clear of sixth place. With fifth position likely to be enough for qualification, their prospects look promising.
Forest’s head coach expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance, particularly their defensive resilience. “We are very happy. We did a very good game against a tough team. The defensive display was good. Proud and happy,” he said.
Forest’s success this season has included victories over Liverpool, Manchester United, Aston Villa, and City, as well as a recent draw against Arsenal. “We are talking about the best teams around,” he noted. “It always gives you confidence that you can compete well against such good players.”
Despite these results, he remains focused only on the next challenge. “It allows us to grow as a team, but it doesn’t change the opponent ahead of you because the Premier League is very tough. Now, we look ahead to Ipswich next Saturday. Let’s rest because it was a tough week for us. Many of our players played 120 minutes-plus earlier this week and then another 90 minutes today. Thank God they are healthy for now. Let’s keep them healthy, recover, and prepare for the next one.”
Hudson-Odoi reflected on the team’s determination, stressing the importance of maintaining their fighting spirit until the end of the season. “We know it’s the last games of the season and we’re going to have to fight every single game. I’m absolutely buzzing with the goal and I’m happy for the team. It’s not just me, it’s the whole team’s performance,” he said.
“We worked hard and we deserved it. We’re buzzing for the win and I hope we can enjoy it now, but we have to recover and go again next week.”
The head coach also took a moment to pay tribute to Stuart Pearce, sending best wishes to the club and England legend following his mid-flight health scare. “Stuart is not just a legend of our club, he is part of our family. We all send him our very best wishes and hope he has a full and fast recovery.”
