Goals: Reijnders 48′ (Man City) | Hutchinson 54′ (Forest) | Cherki 83′ (Man City)
On 27 December 2025, Manchester City secured a 2-1 Premier League victory against Nottingham Forest at the City Ground in a tightly contested festive fixture.
The first half was competitive and cagey, with both teams showing tactical discipline and few clear scoring opportunities. Forest defended resolutely and disrupted City’s usual rhythm, forcing the visitors wide and limiting central penetration. Despite City maintaining greater possession, neither side could find a breakthrough before the interval.
Shortly after the restart, City gained the lead when midfielder Tijjani Reijnders finished from close range after a well-constructed attacking move. Forest responded with intensity, and within minutes they levelled through a strong forward finish following a quick transition that exposed space in City’s defence. The equaliser galvanised the home crowd and set up an intriguing final phase.
As the match approached its closing stages, City continued to probe and create chances. In the 83rd minute, Rayan Cherki struck with precision from just inside the penalty area to put City ahead. Forest pressed for an equaliser in the remaining minutes, but City’s defensive organisation and game management kept them at bay.
Forest displayed spirited commitment throughout and challenged one of the league’s leading sides, illustrating their resilience and tactical awareness. However, City’s quality in decisive moments ultimately made the difference, enabling them to claim three valuable points in the title race.
Player Performances
Manchester City’s Reijnders and Cherki were decisive in attack, combining creativity and composure. Forest’s Hutchinson provided energy and delivered an important goal, exemplifying Forest’s attacking intent.
Tactical Overview
Forest adopted a compact defensive shape in the first period, aiming to frustrate City and exploit counter-attacking opportunities. City’s fluid positional play and control of possession eventually unlocked the defence. The match highlighted the contrasting styles: disciplined resistance from the hosts and persistent probing from the visitors.
