On the final day of the Premier League season, Nottingham Forest pulled off a vital 4-2 victory over West Ham United at the London Stadium. The high-stakes encounter delivered drama, goals, and emotional swings as Forest fought to maintain their top-flight status, while West Ham’s defensive flaws were exposed once more.
A Fast Start from the Visitors
The game sprang to life early, with Forest taking the lead in the 11th minute through Morgan Gibbs-White. The attacking midfielder capitalised on a loose clearance, firing a low shot into the bottom corner from just outside the box. The goal gave Forest a dream start and immediately shifted pressure onto the hosts.
The early setback forced West Ham to push forward, but despite enjoying more of the possession, they struggled to convert their dominance into clear-cut chances. Kudus and Bowen both tested Forest’s backline but were unable to find the equaliser before halftime.
Milenkovic Makes It Two
Forest’s defence held firm throughout the first half and returned from the break looking even more determined. Their discipline was rewarded just past the hour mark when Nikola Milenkovic doubled the visitors’ lead. Rising highest to meet a whipped corner from Callum Hudson-Odoi, Milenkovic’s header gave Forest a crucial two-goal cushion and sparked celebrations on the bench.
That goal prompted a change in approach from West Ham, who began committing more bodies forward in search of a lifeline. The increased pressure would eventually bear fruit.
Kudus Gives West Ham Hope
In the 67th minute, West Ham finally found a breakthrough. A clever one-two between Lucas Paquetá and Jarrod Bowen released Mohammed Kudus in the box, and the Ghanaian made no mistake, coolly finishing past the Forest keeper to bring the score to 2-1. The goal rejuvenated the home fans and brought a renewed sense of urgency to the West Ham attack.
But just when it seemed the momentum had shifted, Forest struck again — a moment that would prove decisive.
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Origi Delivers a Crucial Blow
Only seven minutes after West Ham’s goal, Divock Origi — introduced as a second-half substitute — punished the home side’s high defensive line. A long ball over the top caught the backline napping, and Origi sprinted through before firing a low shot past Areola at the near post.
At 3-1, Forest regained control of the match. The London Stadium crowd was stunned into silence, and the Hammers’ uphill battle became even steeper.
Bowen’s Late Strike in Vain
West Ham managed to pull one back in the 86th minute when Bowen curled a superb shot into the far corner from 20 yards out. It was a goal worthy of admiration, bringing the score to 3-2 and offering a glimmer of hope for a late comeback.
However, Forest were not done yet. As the hosts threw men forward in desperation, Forest broke on the counter in stoppage time. A scramble in the box saw substitute Ryan Yates stab home the fourth goal from close range, sealing the result and ensuring the visitors’ Premier League survival.
Contrasting Emotions at Full-Time
The final whistle brought elation for the Forest players and fans, who celebrated staying in the Premier League after a challenging season. Manager Nuno Espírito Santo praised his squad’s character, saying, “The players gave everything today. We knew what was at stake, and we showed fight, composure, and quality when it mattered.”
On the other hand, West Ham boss David Moyes cut a frustrated figure. “We conceded far too easily,” he admitted post-match. “We had enough of the ball but didn’t defend well enough. That’s the story of our season.”
Implications for Both Sides
The win lifted Nottingham Forest out of the relegation zone, finishing the campaign with 38 points — just enough to secure safety. The result reflects a gritty end-of-season push from a team that looked doomed just weeks ago.
For West Ham, the loss highlighted ongoing issues that have plagued their campaign. Despite periods of attacking flair, their defensive record — one of the worst among top-half clubs — has undermined their ambitions. With 62 goals conceded over the season, questions are being asked about squad depth and tactical discipline.
As speculation swirls about potential changes in management and player personnel, the Hammers must regroup ahead of a busy summer.
A Season to Remember — and Reflect On
While Forest celebrate a hard-fought escape, West Ham are left to reflect on what could have been. The 4-2 scoreline encapsulates the story of both teams: Forest, resilient under pressure; West Ham, dangerous but inconsistent.
“One team survives. The other must rebuild.”
