Jamie Carragher singles out Liverpool ‘game-changer’ after win over Nottingham Forest

Liverpool secured a dramatic 1-0 victory over Nottingham Forest at the City Ground on February 22, 2026, thanks to a 97th-minute winner from Alexis Mac Allister, but it came after one of their poorest performances of the season under manager Arne Slot.[1][3]

The match was a tale of resilience over dominance. Forest, revitalized under new boss Vitor Pereira, outplayed Liverpool throughout, particularly in the first half, which former Reds captain Jamie Carragher branded a "horror show." He described the win as "one of the biggest robberies" in Premier League history, noting Liverpool were "monstered physically" and struggled in an end-to-end game.[1][3][4]

Forest created the better chances, with Callum Hudson-Odoi missing a golden opportunity inside five minutes, and Ibrahim Sangare dominating midfield. Liverpool were forced into an early change after Florian Wirtz suffered a warm-up injury, bringing on Curtis Jones, who Carragher criticized separately for losing possession 12 times.[1][2][4]

Tension peaked late: Mac Allister had a 89th-minute goal ruled out by VAR for handball, leaving Liverpool fuming. But in stoppage time, he pounced from close range to snatch the points, boosting their Champions League hopes as they drew level with Chelsea and Manchester United.[1][3]

Despite the loss, Forest can take pride, remaining in the relegation fight. Carragher singled out substitute Rio Ngumoha as the "game-changer," praising how the youngster outperformed Mohamed Salah and Cody Gakpo combined in just 15 minutes on the pitch, urging Slot to build around him.[5]

Virgil van Dijk's vital defending preserved the clean sheet, denying Igor Jesus before halftime. Player ratings highlighted Forest's solidity: Sangare (8), Aina, Murillo, Milenkovic, and Williams (7s).[3][4]

This gritty win underscores Liverpool's title credentials, even on off-days.[1][6]