Nottingham Forest rounded off 2024 with a convincing 2-0 victory against Everton at Goodison Park, securing their place among the Premier League’s top four teams. This win, highlighted by commendable performances from Chris Wood and Morgan Gibbs-White, capped off what has been an impressive festive period for Forest, marking their fourth consecutive league win.
The match commenced under challenging circumstances for Forest, as defender Murillo was forced to withdraw from the starting lineup due to injury suffered during the warm-up. This led to Nuno Espirito Santo swiftly adjusting their formation from the intended 3-4-3 to a more familiar 4-2-3-1, with Morato stepping up to fill Murillo’s considerable shoes. Initial fears about the reshuffle were quickly alleviated as Morato delivered one of the standout performances of his career.
Forest's opening goal arrived early when Morgan Gibbs-White combined effectively with Chris Wood. Wood, having found himself on the receiving end of Gibbs-White’s play, deftly chipped the ball over Everton’s Jordan Pickford, sending the away supporters at Goodison Park jubilantly to their feet.
The win became more secure when Wood turned provider, assisting Gibbs-White for the second goal as Forest executed one of their trademark counter-attacks, demonstrating their tactical nous and flair. The synergy between the two players has been emblematic of Forest’s attacking resurgence this season.
Defensively, Morato's performance was pivotal. The young Brazilian might have been the last-minute inclusion, but he led the back line with authority, earning praise across social media. Fans delightedly reported, "Morato has been superb," and another proclaimed, "Morato is a beast, what a great signing." Beyond fan chatter, statistics supported these sentiments; Morato won 75% of his tackles and made seven headed clearances, showing his prowess both aerially and defensively throughout the match.
Despite his lack of experience playing as part of the back four regularly this season, Morato’s contribution ensured Forest maintained their clean sheet against the Toffees, who struggled to convert on their limited chances. Matz Sels, the Forest goalkeeper, had very little actually to do, with Everton's best opportunities sailing wide of his goal.
Fans were vocally supportive throughout the match, and one journalist noted how they could be heard chanting, "we're gonna win the league," reflecting not only the confidence within the squad but also their supporters' burgeoning belief. Just over a year ago, such chants would have seemed ludicrous as Forest battled relegation, but under Espirito Santo, the narrative has entirely changed.
The victory felt particularly significant as it strengthens Nottingham Forest’s position within the league and their ambitions for European football qualification as they head toward 2025. The transformation observed since Espirito Santo was appointed, marked by their improvement from the relegation zone to potential European contenders, has been nothing short of remarkable.
After finishing the year strongly, Forest will look to build upon this momentum as they enter the new year. While much speculation surrounds the future of Murillo, highlighted by scouts from clubs like Real Madrid, the strong showing from Morato suggests Forest already has capable reinforcements should such scenarios materialize.
Undoubtedly, Forest fans will keep their fingers crossed for continued success and perhaps even dreams of league contention, knowing they have witnessed some remarkable progress this past year.