Newcastle edge past Nottingham Forest with late Guimarães strike

Newcastle Edge Past Nottingham Forest with Late Guimarães Strike

In a dramatic Premier League encounter at the City Ground, Newcastle United secured a crucial 3-2 victory over Nottingham Forest, thanks to a stunning late goal from Bruno Guimarães. The Brazilian midfielder, who delivered one of his finest performances of the season, scored twice — including the match-winning goal in the 66th minute — as the Magpies earned back-to-back away wins for the first time this campaign. For fans of football betting and online gaming, Changi77 has followed this fixture closely, highlighting the unpredictability and excitement the Premier League continues to deliver.

First-Half Fireworks: Four Goals in 45 Minutes

From the outset, both teams showcased attacking intent in what proved to be a breathless first half. Newcastle struck first in the 10th minute after Miguel Almirón’s clever short corner set up Kieran Trippier to whip in a cross. The ball deflected across the box and landed perfectly for Bruno Guimarães, who volleyed into the far corner past Forest keeper Matz Sels.

Not to be outdone, Nottingham Forest responded swiftly. Just 16 minutes later, Morgan Gibbs-White’s precise through-ball found Anthony Elanga, who beat the offside trap and calmly slotted his shot past Martin Dúbravka to make it 1-1. The home supporters erupted, sensing their team was capable of getting a result against a Newcastle side that has struggled for consistency on the road.

However, Newcastle would regain the lead before halftime. A long-range set piece was poorly cleared by Forest, and the ball fell to centre-back Fabian Schär at the edge of the box. The Swiss defender hit a clean half-volley that found the bottom corner, giving the visitors a 2-1 advantage in the 43rd minute.

Forest weren’t done yet. On the stroke of halftime, Callum Hudson-Odoi picked up the ball on the left wing and cut inside onto his right foot. His shot took a deflection off Newcastle youngster Lewis Miley, wrong-footing Dúbravka and leveling the score at 2-2 heading into the break.

Second Half: Moments of Magic and Missed Opportunities

The pace of the game slowed slightly in the second half, but both sides remained dangerous. Forest appeared to gain momentum early on, with Elanga and Awoniyi linking well up front. A controversial moment arrived in the 60th minute when Taiwo Awoniyi appeared to be clipped by Dan Burn inside the penalty area. Forest appealed vehemently, but referee Anthony Taylor waved play on and VAR did not intervene.

That decision would loom large just six minutes later.

In the 66th minute, Forest made a costly error at the back. Elanga’s casual pass was intercepted by Guimarães, who needed no second invitation. From the edge of the box, he curled a right-footed shot low into the far corner — a finish of the highest quality. It was his second goal of the match and the decisive moment that sealed all three points for the visitors.

Newcastle managed the game well in the final quarter, slowing the tempo and controlling possession. Forest, despite some late pressure and a flurry of corners, couldn’t create a clear-cut chance to equalize.

Guimarães Shines as Newcastle Regain Momentum

Bruno Guimarães was deservedly named Man of the Match. His goals were not only technically brilliant but also timed perfectly to guide Newcastle to a vital win. After a mixed run of form that saw the Magpies fall off the pace in the race for European qualification, this victory boosts their hopes of securing at least a Europa League spot.

Speaking to reporters post-match, Guimarães said:

“We knew it would be tough coming here. Forest are fighting hard. But we showed our character and stayed focused. I’m very happy to help the team with two goals — we want to be back in Europe next season.”

Manager Eddie Howe also praised his midfield maestro, stating:

“Bruno was outstanding tonight — not just his goals, but his work rate and leadership. He’s one of the top midfielders in the league and showed it again.”

Forest Frustrated as Relegation Fears Linger

For Forest, it was a case of missed opportunities and questionable decisions. Nuno Espírito Santo was visibly frustrated at the final whistle, particularly with the penalty that wasn’t awarded.

“It was a clear foul,” Nuno said in his post-match interview. “Awoniyi was tripped. These moments are crucial in games like this. We gave everything, but again we didn’t get the result.”

With just a few points separating Forest from the relegation zone, their home form — once a fortress — is becoming a liability. They have now lost six of their last seven home matches and will need to regroup quickly.

Looking Ahead

Newcastle will return to St. James’ Park with renewed confidence. They currently sit 7th in the table, just two points off sixth place, and are aiming to finish the season strong. Next up, they face a struggling Everton side — another opportunity to gain valuable points in their European push.

Forest, meanwhile, are in urgent need of points. With tricky fixtures on the horizon, including matches against top-six opponents, their Premier League survival could hinge on turning performances into results — particularly at home.

Final Thoughts

This was a match that had everything — goals, drama, controversy, and a moment of pure brilliance. Bruno Guimarães’ late strike didn’t just win a game for Newcastle; it might have reignited their season. As for Forest, they will feel aggrieved, but in the Premier League, there’s little time to dwell on the past.

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