Chelsea secured their return to the UEFA Champions League after a two-year absence with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Nottingham Forest at the City Ground on Sunday, 25 May 2025. The win ensured a fourth-place finish in the Premier League for the Blues, while Forest, despite a commendable season, settled for seventh place and a spot in the UEFA Conference League.
Colwill’s Decisive Strike
The match’s only goal came in the 50th minute when Levi Colwill capitalized on a defensive lapse. After Forest’s Neco Williams failed to clear a ball, Pedro Neto seized the opportunity, delivering a precise pass to Colwill, who tapped it in from close range.
This goal not only secured the win but also highlighted Colwill’s significant impact, considering his previous role in Forest’s promotion to the Premier League in 2022 while on loan at Huddersfield Town.
Chelsea’s Resilience Under Maresca
Under the guidance of head coach Enzo Maresca, Chelsea demonstrated resilience and tactical discipline throughout the match. Despite the absence of a traditional striker due to Nicolas Jackson’s suspension, the Blues managed to control the game and limit Forest’s opportunities.
This victory marked Chelsea’s second away Premier League win since December, a testament to the team’s improvement and determination to secure Champions League qualification.
Forest’s European Ambitions Dashed
Nottingham Forest entered the match with hopes of qualifying for the Champions League for the first time since 1980. However, the loss, coupled with other results, meant they finished seventh in the league, securing a spot in the UEFA Conference League instead.
Despite the setback, Forest’s season under manager Nuno Espírito Santo has been commendable, marking their best league finish in decades and a return to European competition after a 29-year absence.
What’s Next
Chelsea’s focus now shifts to the UEFA Conference League final against Real Betis in Wroclaw, Poland, as they aim to end the season with silverware.
For Nottingham Forest, the upcoming European campaign presents an opportunity to build on this season’s progress and continue their resurgence on the continental stage.
This match not only determined the immediate European futures of both clubs but also underscored the competitive nature of the Premier League, where margins are fine, and every point counts.
