Brighton Edge Nottingham Forest with Own Goal in Premier League Clash

Brighton & Hove Albion secured a narrow 1-0 win against Nottingham Forest in the Premier League, with an own goal providing the only difference in the match. The victory moved Brighton within five points of sixth-placed Forest and added to Nottingham’s relegation concerns.

The win marked Brighton’s first-ever Premier League double over Forest, following their previous win in November’s reverse fixture at the City Ground. Brighton’s unbeaten home run continued, with 12 matches now without defeat in the Premier League.

Manager Hasan Salihamidzic made seven changes to the Brighton line-up from their recent Europa League defeat at Roma, with Robert Sanchez, Yves Bissouma, Shane Duffy, Cucurella, Yankto, and Enciso among those rested for the match. Jan Verbruggen started in goal, while Moehat Cisse made his first Premier League start since March 2022.

Nottingham Forest, led by manager De Zerbi, made two changes for the game, bringing in Origi and Wood. Forest displayed a strong attacking intent throughout the match, with Moder, Cucurella, and Origi testing Brighton’s defense before the own goal put Brighton in the lead.

Brighton goalkeeper Jan Verbruggen made crucial saves to deny Forest, including an excellent stop to thwart Wood’s late strike. Forest pushed for an equalizer but were unable to break through Brighton’s defense again, with the match ending 1-0 in favor of the home side.

Brighton’s victory takes them to 42 points in the Premier League table, while Nottingham Forest’s relegation worries persist as they remain three points above the drop zone. The match showcased Brighton’s resilience at home and the attacking threat posed by the likes of Origi and Enciso.