Liverpool Snatch Dramatic 1-0 Win at Nottingham Forest Despite Poor Showing

In a thrilling Premier League encounter at the City Ground on February 22, 2026, Liverpool secured a scarcely deserved 1-0 victory over Nottingham Forest thanks to a stoppage-time goal from Alexis Mac Allister.[1][2]

Arne Slot's Liverpool side endured one of their worst performances of the season, described by former captain Jamie Carragher as a "horror show" in the first half. Woefully out of sorts, the visitors were thoroughly outplayed by a resurgent Forest team enjoying a bounce under new manager Vitor Pereira.[2][3]

Forest dominated proceedings but lacked clinical finishing. Callum Hudson-Odoi squandered their best chance, blazing over when through on goal inside the opening five minutes. The hosts pressed relentlessly, creating multiple opportunities, yet failed to break the deadlock.[2][3]

The drama peaked in stoppage time. Mac Allister had an earlier goal controversially ruled out by VAR, leaving Liverpool fuming. Undeterred, the midfielder pounced in the 90+7th minute, slotting home a right-footed shot from very close range to seal the points.[1][2]

Slot admitted post-match: "We got more than we deserved," acknowledging Forest's superiority. The win propelled Liverpool to 45 points from 27 games (13 wins, 6 draws, 8 losses), level with Chelsea and Manchester United in the race for Champions League spots.[1][2][4]

For Forest (7 wins, 6 draws, 14 losses, 27 points), defeat stings amid their relegation fight, but their performance offers encouragement under Pereira, who emulated an earlier 3-0 upset at Anfield.[2][4]

This gritty result highlights Liverpool's resilience, extending their top-four push despite subpar form.[3]