Nottingham Forest 2-2 Manchester United: Post-match review, Stats, Key moments

Dive into Ladbrokes' post-match review of Nottingham Forest 2-2 Manchester United in the Premier League on Saturday, 01 November 2025, with stats, key moments and our take on the match.

Well, what a thrilling encounter at the City Ground! Nottingham Forest managed to claw back from a goal down twice to secure a hard-fought 2-2 draw against Manchester United. The Reds have been struggling lately, with this result snapping a run of four consecutive losses, including a recent 0-2 defeat to AFC Bournemouth. On the other hand, United, who were on a three-game winning streak before this match, will feel they let two points slip away. The resilience shown by Forest, especially with goals in the 48th and 50th minutes, was crucial in earning them a point that could prove vital in their fight against relegation.

The result might come as a surprise to some, given United's recent form and their dominance in possession. However, Forest's fighting spirit was on full display, and they'll take heart from this performance. Amad Diallo stood out for United, scoring a crucial goal, but it was the collective effort from Forest that earned them a share of the spoils. This draw keeps Forest in the thick of the relegation battle but shows they're not ready to throw in the towel just yet.

The statistics from this match paint an interesting picture. Manchester United enjoyed 59% of the ball possession compared to Forest's 41%, yet it was Forest who had more corners, with 8 to United's 5. This suggests that despite less possession, Forest were more threatening in the final third. The successful dribbles percentage was slightly higher for Forest at 45% compared to United's 39%, indicating a bit more flair from the home side.

Both teams received one yellow card each, showing a relatively disciplined game. The stats align with the result in that United had more of the ball but couldn't convert that into a win. Forest's higher number of corners and successful dribbles highlight their determination and ability to create chances despite being under pressure.

The key moments in this match were undoubtedly the goals. Manchester United took the lead in the 34th minute, putting pressure on Forest to respond. However, Forest showed great character, equalising just after halftime in the 48th minute. This quick response was crucial in shifting the momentum back in their favor.

The drama continued as United regained the lead in the 81st minute, only for Forest to level the score once again just two minutes later in the 50th minute. These rapid-fire goals in the second half were pivotal, showcasing Forest's resilience and ability to bounce back. The late equaliser in particular will be a massive boost for their confidence moving forward.

Nottingham Forest lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Matz Sels in goal and a back four of Nicolò Savona, Nikola Milenković, Murillo, and Neco Williams. The midfield was anchored by Douglas Luiz and Elliot Anderson, with Dan Ndoye, Morgan Gibbs-White, and Callum Hudson-Odoi supporting striker Igor Jesus. The lineup was fairly standard, with no major surprises.

The impact of the substitutions was notable, with three changes made by Forest. These fresh legs likely played a part in their ability to score twice in quick succession in the second half. Morgan Gibbs-White and Callum Hudson-Odoi were particularly influential in the attacking third, helping to create the goals that secured the draw.

Manchester United opted for a 3-4-2-1 formation, with Senne Lammens between the sticks and a back three of Leny Yoro, Matthijs de Ligt, and Luke Shaw. The midfield was manned by Amad Diallo, Casemiro, Bruno Fernandes, and Diogo Dalot, with Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha supporting striker Benjamin Šeško. The lineup was as expected, with no major shocks.

Amad Diallo's performance was a highlight, scoring a crucial goal that put United back in the lead. The two substitutions made by United were perhaps less impactful than Forest's, but the team still managed to create chances. Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro controlled the midfield well, but it was the attacking trio of Diallo, Mbeumo, and Šeško who posed the biggest threat.

Amad Diallo is Ladbrokes' Man of the Match, and rightly so. His goal in the 34th minute was a moment of brilliance that put United in the lead. Despite not registering any assists or big chances created, his key pass and overall performance were instrumental in United's efforts to secure a win. Diallo's contribution was vital, and he showed why he's a player to watch.

• Draw: 2-2 vs Manchester United (H)
• Loss: 0-2 vs AFC Bournemouth (A)
• Loss: 0-3 vs Chelsea (H)
• Loss: 0-2 vs Newcastle United (A)

• Draw: 2-2 vs Nottingham Forest (A)
• Win: 4-2 vs Brighton & Hove Albion (H)
• Win: 2-1 vs Liverpool (A)
• Win: 2-0 vs Sunderland (H)
• Loss: 1-3 vs Brentford (A)

With this draw, Forest remain in 18th place with 6 points. Their next game is against Sturm Graz on November 06, 2025 at 17:45. This result will give them a boost of confidence as they look to climb out of the relegation zone. They'll need to carry this fighting spirit into their upcoming match.

Manchester United sit in 6th place with 17 points after this draw. They face Tottenham Hotspur, who are in 3rd place with 17 points, on November 08, 2025 at 12:30. The dropped points against Forest might spur them on to be more clinical in their next outing, especially against a strong Spurs side.

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Odds and market details are accurate as of the time of publication.