Forest strike inside two minutes to shock Chelsea
Stamford Bridge had barely settled when Nottingham Forest took the lead in the 2nd minute. The visitors were sharp, direct, and clinical from the very first whistle. Before Chelsea could regroup, Forest doubled the lead in the 15th minute — and suddenly Maresca's men were chasing the game. Despite dominating possession at 67%, Chelsea simply could not turn territory into clear-cut chances against Forest's compact low block.
Matz Sels was assured in goal throughout, while the Forest centre-back partnership of Morato and Cunha Jair put a lid on Cole Palmer's creativity. Chelsea managed 18 shots across the whole match; Forest had just six — but four of them hit the target.
Third goal kills the contest in the 52nd minute
Maresca threw on four substitutes at half-time in a desperate attempt to turn the tide. It didn't work. Seven minutes into the second half Forest struck again to make it 0-3, and the game was over as a contest. Chelsea pressed on with their customary possession but Forest's backline — blocking seven shots — refused to buckle.
Late consolation, but Forest take the points
Chelsea's only reward was a 90th-minute consolation goal. Far too little, far too late. Nottingham Forest head back to the City Ground with a famous three points — one of the best away performances by any side at Stamford Bridge this season. Nuno's system worked to perfection.
Match stats
Chelsea: 18 shots (5 on target), 67% possession, 3 yellow cards. Nottingham Forest: 6 shots (4 on target), 33% possession, 1 yellow card. Forest blocked 7 Chelsea shots inside the box.