Nottingham Forest walked away from Goodison Park with a well-earned 2-0 victory over Everton in Matchweek 19. Chris Wood and Morgan Gibbs-White delivered the goals, capitalizing on high-quality chances while Everton struggled to convert their possession advantage into meaningful opportunities. Forest’s 2.28 expected goals (xG) to Everton’s 0.75 underlined their attacking efficiency and composure in front of goal.
Momentum and Key Stats
The match momentum swung between both sides, with Everton controlling possession (62%) but failing to create sustained attacking threats. Forest, meanwhile, showed resilience, maximizing their fewer opportunities with quick, incisive transitions.
Key stats:
Shots: Everton 12, Nottingham Forest 11
xG: Nottingham Forest 2.28, Everton 0.75
Touches in the Box: Everton 19, Nottingham Forest 9
Shots and Goals Analysis
Forest’s shot map highlights their efficiency in the final third. Seven of their 11 shots were on target, leading to two well-taken goals. Chris Wood’s opener came from a sharp 0.10 xG chance, while Gibbs-White’s clinical finish from 0.33 xG secured the win.
Everton’s shot map paints a frustrating picture. Despite 12 attempts, only two were on target, with their xG of 0.75 reflecting the low quality of chances created. Most of their efforts came from outside the box, highlighting their difficulty breaking down Forest’s compact defense.
Possession Tactics and Pass Maps
Everton’s pass map reveals a clear intention to dominate possession, with Idrissa Gueye and Amadou Onana orchestrating play in midfield. However, the lack of direct connections to Armando Broja up top limited their penetration. The Toffees relied heavily on crosses, with little success against Forest’s sturdy backline.
Forest’s pass map tells a different story—focused and effective. Morgan Gibbs-White played a pivotal role, linking midfield and attack seamlessly. The wide play of Ola Aina and Anthony Elanga added dynamism, while Emmanuel Anderson ensured control in key moments. Forest’s transitions were quick and purposeful, bypassing Everton’s midfield with efficiency.
Nottingham Forest’s clinical display and disciplined structure were the difference makers in a game where Everton dominated possession but failed to capitalize. Steve Cooper’s side continues to show resilience and opportunism, while Sean Dyche will be left to ponder how his team can turn possession into points. Forest climbs the table, while Everton is left searching for solutions as the season marches on.