Nottingham Forest stunned Liverpool 1-0 at Anfield on Saturday, securing their first victory at the historic stadium in 55 years and ending the Reds’ perfect start to the Premier League season.
Substitute Callum Hudson-Odoi fired the winning goal in the 72nd minute, bending a precise 20-yard strike beyond the reach of Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker. The goal came against the run of play, with Liverpool dominating possession and creating numerous chances throughout the match.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot, in his debut season with the club, saw his team’s previously impenetrable defense finally breached. The Reds had not conceded a league goal before Hudson-Odoi’s introduction from the Forest bench.
Despite launching 14 shots at goal, with five on target, Liverpool lacked the clinical edge that had seen them score seven times in their opening three fixtures. The home side’s obvious dominance failed to translate into meaningful results, a stark contrast to their early-season form.
Nottingham Forest manager Nuno Espirito Santo’s tactical approach proved crucial to the upset. His brave team selection, including Ryan Yates and James Ward-Prowse among four changes, helped pack the midfield and stifle Liverpool’s creative play. The introduction of Anthony Elanga alongside Hudson-Odoi in the second half ultimately led to the game-winning goal.
“We executed our game plan perfectly,” Nuno said in the post-match press conference. “The players showed incredible discipline and courage to come here and get this result.”
Liverpool’s Slot expressed disappointment but remained optimistic: “We created chances but couldn’t find the final touch today. It’s a setback, but there’s a long season ahead.”
The result marks a significant milestone for Nottingham Forest, who had not tasted victory at Anfield since a 2-0 win in March 1969. For Liverpool, it serves as a reality check in their pursuit of the Premier League title, highlighting the competitive nature of the league even against teams expected to struggle.
As Forest celebrate their historic win, questions will be asked about Liverpool’s ability to maintain consistency throughout the season. The loss drops them from the top of the table and opens the door for their rivals to gain ground in the title race.
Both teams now look ahead to their next fixtures, with Liverpool aiming to bounce back and Forest hoping to build on this momentum as the Premier League season continues to unfold.
