Everton vs Nottingham Forest Match Recap - Dec 6, 2025

Everton Dominates Nottingham Forest 3-0: A Statement of Intent in the Premier League

Everton's emphatic 3-0 victory over Nottingham Forest at Hill Dickinson Stadium marks a significant turning point for the Toffees, who have struggled for consistency this season. This win not only boosts their confidence but also solidifies their mid-table position, moving them to 21 points and into 10th place. The match showcased Everton's tactical superiority and highlighted the growing influence of Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, who continues to be a key player in their resurgence.

Everton's recent form has been a rollercoaster ride, oscillating between gritty wins and heavy defeats. Prior to this match, they had managed a narrow 1-0 victory against Bournemouth, where they were outshot but capitalized on their limited chances. The contrast in performance against Nottingham Forest was stark; Everton dominated possession with 100% ball control and completed 7 passes compared to Forest's 0. This level of control is indicative of a team that is beginning to find its rhythm under manager David Moyes.

The early own goal by Nikola Milenković set the tone for the match, putting Nottingham Forest on the back foot right from the start. This was a continuation of Forest's defensive frailties, which have plagued them throughout the season. Despite a recent win against Wolves, Nottingham has struggled to maintain defensive solidity, as evidenced by their inability to recover from early setbacks in matches. Their defensive line, which had shown promise in previous outings, crumbled under pressure, allowing Everton to exploit gaps with ease.

Thierno Barry emerged as a standout performer for Everton, scoring just before halftime and showcasing his ability to find space in the box. His goal not only boosted his confidence but also reinforced Everton's attacking depth. The Toffees have been searching for consistent goal scorers, and Barry's performance could signal a turning point for him personally and for the team as a whole. With Jack Grealish and Iliman Ndiaye providing support in attack, Everton's forward line looked more cohesive than it has in recent weeks.

Nottingham Forest's midfield struggled to assert itself throughout the match. Despite having players like Morgan Gibbs-White, who has been influential in their attacking play, the team failed to create meaningful chances against a resolute Everton defense. Their inability to transition effectively from defense to attack was evident, as they recorded only 3 shots on goal compared to Everton's 10. This lack of offensive output is concerning for manager Angelos Postecoglou, who must find a way to reinvigorate his squad ahead of their next fixture against Tottenham.

The statistical disparity between the two teams was glaring. Everton's pass accuracy stood at an impressive 86%, while Nottingham Forest struggled to find their rhythm, reflected in their lack of completed passes. This match served as a microcosm of both teams' seasons thus far: Everton is finding its footing and building momentum, while Nottingham Forest continues to grapple with inconsistency and defensive lapses.

Dewsbury-Hall's second goal in the 80th minute further emphasized Everton's dominance and showcased his growing importance within the squad. Having already scored in previous matches, his ability to contribute both defensively and offensively makes him a vital asset moving forward. His performance today reinforces the notion that he is not just a supporting player but a key figure capable of influencing outcomes.

The result leaves Nottingham Forest in a precarious position, sitting at 16th place with only 15 points. Their recent form has been erratic, with flashes of brilliance overshadowed by defensive errors and missed opportunities. The upcoming match against Tottenham will be crucial for them; they need to find a way to stabilize their performances if they hope to avoid slipping further down the table.

Everton's victory today serves as a reminder of their potential when firing on all cylinders. With upcoming fixtures against Chelsea and other mid-table rivals, they have an opportunity to build on this momentum and push for a higher league finish. The combination of tactical discipline and individual brilliance displayed today could be the catalyst they need to turn their season around.

In summary, this match encapsulated the contrasting trajectories of both teams. Everton is beginning to find its identity under Moyes, while Nottingham Forest must confront their vulnerabilities head-on if they are to salvage their season. The stakes are high as both teams look ahead; for Everton, it is about consolidating their position and aiming higher, while for Nottingham Forest, it is about survival and regaining lost ground.