Islamabad, May 6, 2025: The Champions League hopes for Nottingham Forest may go to the final day after a 1-1 draw at Crystal Palace, says manager Nuno Espirito Santo.
The visitors responded quickly after falling behind in the second half but struggled to maintain control as the game wore on.
Palace had taken the lead through Eberechi Eze, who converted a penalty awarded after a VAR review found Nicolas Dominguez had fouled Tyrick Mitchell in the box.
Just four minutes later, Murillo equalised for Forest with a clever flick from Neco Williams’ shot.
Despite Forest’s spirited comeback, it was the home side who looked more likely to win in the closing stages.
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Eze struck the crossbar and substitute Eddie Nketiah, who had a goal ruled out for offside, came close to scoring again.
Palace, who remain focused ahead of their upcoming FA Cup final, were unlucky not to claim all three points.
Forest’s recent form remains a concern, with only one win in their last six matches across all competitions.
The draw leaves them two points behind fifth-placed Chelsea, but with three matches remaining, their fate remains in their own hands.
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Chelsea will visit Forest on the final day of the season in what could prove to be a decisive clash for European qualification.
Nuno said that he expected the race for Champions League football to remain open until the very end, insisting no one doubted it would come down to the last game.
Both teams suffered injuries; Forest’s Murillo went off with a hamstring problem, while Palace’s Wharton limped off with an ankle issue after their opener.
Palace manager Oliver Glasner expressed hope that the injury was not serious, particularly with a trip to Wembley approaching.
Forest now prepare to host relegated Leicester City on Sunday, a game seen as a key opportunity to regain momentum with Chelsea and Newcastle.
