Anthony Elanga scores as Nottingham Forest beat Manchester United 1-0

Elanga’s early goal sinks Manchester United in Premier League clash.

Anthony Elanga is challenged by Alejandro Garnacho during the Premier League match between Nottingham Forest and Manchester United at the City Ground in Nottingham, England, on April 1, 2025. Photo by Jon Hobley/Nur

By Anna Fadiah and Hayu Andini

Anthony Elanga delivered a decisive performance against his former club, scoring the only goal in Nottingham Forest’s 1-0 victory over Manchester United in their Premier League match at the City Ground, Nottingham, on Wednesday morning WIB. The win solidified Forest’s place in third position in the standings with 57 points, while United’s struggles continued as they dropped to 13th with 37 points.

Elanga, who left United in 2023 under Erik ten Hag’s management, wasted no time in punishing his former team. Just five minutes into the match, he capitalized on a failed United corner, launching a swift counter-attack from his own half. Evading Alejandro Garnacho’s challenge, he sprinted towards goal and calmly slotted the ball past Andre Onana, sending the home fans into celebration.

Manchester United struggle to respond

United, desperate for an equalizer, pushed forward immediately. Bruno Fernandes had the first real opportunity when he met Diogo Dalot’s cross with a header, but Forest goalkeeper Matz Sels reacted well to make the save.

Casemiro also had a golden chance to level the score, connecting with a Fernandes corner, but his header drifted wide. Dalot, determined to make an impact, nearly scored himself when his header struck the crossbar. The rebound fell to Matthijs de Ligt, but his follow-up effort was blocked by the alert Sels.

Despite their attacking efforts, United’s lack of clinical finishing continued to haunt them. Manager Ruben Amorim responded by introducing Rasmus Hojlund at halftime, hoping the Danish striker could provide a breakthrough. However, Forest’s defensive structure remained resolute, frustrating United’s forwards.

Missed opportunities cost United

Alejandro Garnacho was one of United’s liveliest players, attempting two long-range shots in quick succession. The first curled wide of the post, while the second flew over the crossbar, reflecting United’s growing frustration.

Mason Mount made his long-awaited first appearance of 2025 for United and nearly made an immediate impact. He found space to take a shot but dragged his effort wide. The visitors’ best late opportunity fell to Harry Maguire, who nearly rescued a point with a close-range attempt, only for Forest defender Murillo to clear the ball off the line in dramatic fashion.

Forest’s top-three hopes grow as United’s struggles continue

With the final whistle, Nottingham Forest secured another crucial victory, strengthening their grip on third place in the Premier League table. Their solid defensive display and Elanga’s early strike proved enough to claim all three points.

For Manchester United, the defeat deepens their troubles as they continue to slide down the table. Amorim’s men now face increasing pressure to find consistency in their performances, with their European qualification hopes fading fast.

Forest, on the other hand, continue their impressive run, proving they are a genuine contender for a top-four finish this season.