FC Midtjylland seized a vital away win at the City Ground, overcoming Nottingham Forest 3-2 in a pulsating Europa League group stage encounter that was defined by defensive frailties, late drama, and a relentless tempo. The result leaves Forest manager Ange Postecoglou under intensifying scrutiny, with home supporters voicing their frustration as the final whistle blew.

The Danish visitors struck early, capitalizing on Forest’s brittle back line with a swift counter-attack that saw their frontman slot home the opener in just the ninth minute. Forest responded with urgency, mounting pressure throughout the first half and eventually drawing level before the interval thanks to a well-finished effort from their talismanic striker, who latched onto a precise through ball to equalize.

But Midtjylland were unfazed, retaking the lead moments into the second half with a thunderous strike from outside the box that left the Forest goalkeeper rooted. As Forest pressed forward in search of another equalizer, gaps appeared at the back; Midtjylland took advantage with a third goal midway through the second half, a clever movement and clinical finish putting daylight between the teams.

Forest’s hopes were revived late on when substitute winger ignited the crowd with a sharp finish, reducing the deficit to 3-2 with ten minutes remaining. The closing stages saw relentless pressure from the hosts, including a series of desperate corners and a last-gasp shot narrowly wide, but Midtjylland’s defense held firm.

Key performances from Midtjylland’s midfield anchor and goalkeeper were pivotal, with both making crucial interventions to frustrate Forest’s attackers. For Forest, standout showings from their captain and lively substitutes offered glimmers of hope, but defensive errors proved costly.

The defeat not only dents Forest’s Europa League ambitions—leaving them with work to do in the group—but also raises urgent questions about Postecoglou’s tactical approach and defensive organization. The City Ground faithful made their feelings clear, with chants of “You’re getting sacked in the morning” echoing around the stadium as pressure mounts on the embattled manager.

As the dust settles, Midtjylland revel in a hard-fought victory that strengthens their campaign, while Forest must regroup quickly to reignite their European hopes before their next continental challenge arrives.