Chelsea’s five-game winning streak came to an end Sunday as they were held to a 1-1 draw by a determined Nottingham Forest side at Stamford Bridge.
Chris Wood put the visitors ahead early in the second half before Noni Madueke equalized for Chelsea. Forest’s James Ward-Prowse was sent off late in the game, but the Blues couldn’t capitalize on their numerical advantage.
“We lacked sharpness in the final third,” Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino said. “Forest defended well and made it difficult for us to break them down.”
Nottingham Forest took the lead in the 47th minute when Wood poked home from close range after a James Ward-Prowse free-kick was flicked on by Nikola Milenkovic.
Chelsea responded in the 59th minute through Madueke, who cut inside from the right and curled a shot into the far corner.
The game swung in Chelsea’s favor when Ward-Prowse received a second yellow card in the 78th minute for a handball. However, Forest goalkeeper Matz Sels made several crucial saves to preserve the draw.
“We showed great character to come here and get a point,” Forest manager Nuno Espirito Santo said. “Our defensive organization was excellent.”
The result leaves Chelsea in fifth place in the Premier League, while Forest move up to 12th.
Madueke was named man of the match for his energetic performance and crucial goal. “We’re disappointed not to win, but it’s another point on the board,” the winger said post-match.
