Nottingham Forest 0-1 Sunderland: Post-match review, Stats, Key moments

Dive into Coral’s post-match review of Nottingham Forest 0-1 Sunderland in the Premier League on Saturday, 27 September 2025, with stats, key moments and our take on the match.

Nottingham Forest's home defeat to Sunderland, ending 0-1, was a disappointing result that saw them fail to capitalise on their recent form. The topmost result in their recent matches, this loss follows a draw against Burnley and a heavy defeat to Arsenal, suggesting a struggle to find consistency. The game's decisive moment came in the 38th minute when Omar Alderete scored for Sunderland, a goal that ultimately decided the match. Despite dominating possession, Forest couldn't convert their control into goals, leaving them frustrated and extending their winless run.

Sunderland, on the other hand, continued their solid form with this victory, adding to their recent draws against Aston Villa and Crystal Palace, and a win over Brentford. The result was not entirely surprising given their recent performances, but it was a testament to their defensive resilience and clinical finishing. Alderete's goal was the difference, and it showcased Sunderland's ability to make the most of their opportunities. This win further solidifies their position in the league and boosts their confidence moving forward.

The statistics from the match reveal a game where Nottingham Forest had the upper hand in possession, holding 65% of the ball compared to Sunderland's 35%. Despite this dominance, Forest only managed seven corners to Sunderland's four, indicating a struggle to create clear scoring chances. The yellow card count was higher for Forest with four, suggesting a more aggressive or perhaps frustrated approach as the game wore on. These figures suggest that while Forest controlled the game, they were unable to translate that control into a positive result, which aligns with the final scoreline.

The key moment that defined the match came in the 38th minute when Omar Alderete scored for Sunderland, a goal that proved to be the winner. This strike was the result of a well-executed move, and it highlighted Sunderland's ability to capitalise on their limited possession. For Nottingham Forest, the game was marred by disciplinary issues, with yellow cards shown to Nicolás Domínguez, Nikola Milenković, Neco Williams, and Elliott Anderson. These bookings may have disrupted their rhythm and contributed to their inability to mount a comeback.

Substitutions played a significant role for both teams, with Nottingham Forest making five changes throughout the match. Morgan Gibbs-White, Callum Hudson-Odoi, Igor Jesus Maciel da Cruz, Omari Giraud-Hutchinson, and Arnaud Kalimuendo Muinga were all brought on in an attempt to change the game's course. However, these changes did not yield the desired impact, as Forest failed to find the back of the net. Sunderland also made five substitutions, but their earlier goal proved sufficient to secure the victory.

Nottingham Forest lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Matz Sels in goal and a back four of Neco Williams, Nikola Milenković, Morato, and Oleksandr Zinchenko. The midfield was anchored by Nicolás Domínguez and Elliot Anderson, with Dilane Bakwa, James McAtee, and Dan Ndoye supporting striker Chris Wood. The lineup was fairly standard, with no major surprises in the starting XI. However, the impact of the substitutions, particularly the introduction of Morgan Gibbs-White and Callum Hudson-Odoi, did not provide the spark needed to turn the game around.

Sunderland also opted for a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Robin Roefs between the posts and a defensive line of Trai Hume, Nordi Mukiele, Omar Alderete, and Arthur Masuaku. The midfield duo of Granit Xhaka and Noah Sadiki provided stability, while Chemsdine Talbi, Chris Rigg, and Enzo Le Fée supported striker Wilson Isidor. The standout performer was undoubtedly Omar Alderete, whose goal in the 38th minute proved decisive. The substitutions made by Sunderland, including Lutsharel Geertruida and Bertrand Isidore Traoré, helped maintain their lead and secure the victory.

Event Lineups

Omar Alderete is Coral’s Man of the Match, and his performance was pivotal in securing the victory for Sunderland. Scoring the only goal of the game in the 38th minute, Alderete demonstrated his ability to be in the right place at the right time. His contribution was crucial, as it was the difference between the two teams. Despite not recording any assists or key passes, his goal was enough to earn him this accolade.

Recent Premier League matches:

• Loss: 0-1 vs Sunderland (H)

• Draw: 1-1 vs Burnley (A)

• Loss: 0-3 vs Arsenal (A)

Recent Premier League matches:

• Win: 1-0 vs Nottingham Forest (A)

• Draw: 1-1 vs Aston Villa (H)

• Draw: 0-0 vs Crystal Palace (A)

• Win: 2-1 vs Brentford (H)

Sitting in 16th place with 5 points, Nottingham Forest will need to regroup quickly as they face FC Midtjylland in Europa League action on October 02, 2025. This recent loss may prompt them to focus on improving their finishing and discipline ahead of their next match. A positive result against Midtjylland could help boost their confidence and potentially improve their league form when they return to premier league action against Newcastle.

With this win, Sunderland have climbed to 4th place with 11 points, and they will look to maintain their momentum when they face Manchester United on October 04, 2025. This result will likely increase their confidence, and they will aim to continue their solid defensive performances while seeking to exploit any weaknesses in Manchester United's lineup.

• Man United Vs Sunderland

• Leeds United Vs Tottenham

• Chelsea vs Liverpool

• Everton vs Crystal Palace

• Newcastle vs Nottingham Forest

• Bournemouth vs Fulham

• Brentford vs Man City

• Arsenal Vs West Ham

• Wolves vs Brighton

• Aston Villa Vs Burnley

Coral brings you the most exciting offers to enhance your experience.

For the best Premier League outright predictions, explore our guide.

Odds and market details are accurate as of the time of publication.