Tottenham Hotspur’s disappointing domestic season continued on Sunday as Nottingham Forest handed them an 18th Premier League defeat, reclaiming third place with a clinical 2-1 win in north London. Forest’s Elliot Anderson opened the scoring with a fifth-minute volley, deflected off Rodrigo Bentancur, before Chris Wood doubled the lead in the 16th minute with a smart header from Anthony Elanga’s cross.
Despite Tottenham enjoying lengthy spells of possession, they lacked creativity in the final third. Richarlison, making his first league start since February, was denied by Matz Sels late on before eventually scoring with a header in the 87th minute. However, it was too little, too late, as Ange Postecoglou’s side failed to find an equalizer.
The loss marks Tottenham’s 18th league defeat, their worst tally since the 2003-04 season. Forest, meanwhile, moved back into third place, showcasing their effective counter-attacking style despite low possession stats. They scored twice from just three shots on target, with Wood’s goal ending a scoring drought since mid-February.
Forest’s defense stood strong, restricting Spurs to half-chances until the closing stages. The win puts Forest firmly back in the hunt for a top-five finish, which could secure Champions League qualification depending on European outcomes elsewhere. For Tottenham, their domestic form continues to decline, casting doubt over their campaign with just a handful of matches remaining.
As Forest’s coach has demonstrated, his team’s ability to score from limited opportunities has been a key factor in their success. With Spurs struggling to create clear chances, Forest’s defense has been able to maintain its solidity. The result highlights the gulf between the two teams’ form this season, with Forest now poised to challenge for a Champions League spot.