Nottingham Forest reinforced their Champions League qualification credentials with a convincing 4-2 victory over relegation-threatened Ipswich Town at Portman Road. A first-half attacking blitz, featuring two goals from Anthony Elanga, set the foundation for Forest’s win, moving them within a point of second-placed Arsenal, who play Chelsea on Sunday.
The match marked Nuno Espirito Santo’s 50th top-flight game in charge of Forest, and his side ruthlessly exploited Ipswich’s defensive vulnerabilities. Nikola Milenkovic opened the scoring, firing home from close range after Liam Delap inadvertently headed the ball into his path.
Just over two minutes later, Forest doubled their lead. Elliot Anderson found Elanga on the right wing, and the Swedish international ran unchallenged from inside the Ipswich half before finishing low into the far corner.
Elanga scored his second, and Forest’s third, capitalizing on more poor defending. He intercepted a loose ball between three Ipswich players after Milenkovic’s long punt forward wasn’t dealt with, and slipped it past goalkeeper Alex Palmer.
Ipswich responded with a superb curling effort from Jens Cajuste, who skillfully pirouetted away from Ryan Yates before scoring. However, Jota Silva restored Forest’s three-goal advantage, finishing clinically after being played in by Morgan Gibbs-White.
George Hirst scored a late consolation goal for Ipswich, but the result was never in doubt.
Forest’s Champions League Push Continues
The victory solidifies Forest’s position as serious contenders for a top-four finish. Their attacking efficiency, particularly in the first half, contrasted sharply with Ipswich’s defensive frailties.
Ipswich’s Woes Deepen
Kieran McKenna’s Ipswich remain in 18th place, and are the only club in the top four divisions of English football without a league win in 2025. Their defensive performance raised serious concerns, and their lack of wins increases the pressure.
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