Forest Held by Fulham as Pereira Still Awaits First Premier League Victory

Nottingham Forest F.C. climbed out of the Premier League relegation zone but were left frustrated after a goalless draw against Fulham F.C. at the City Ground in a tense encounter marked by VAR controversy and missed opportunities.

The result offered slight relief for Forest in their fight for survival, yet it also extended the winless start of head coach Vítor Pereira in the Premier League since taking charge earlier in the season.

VAR Denies Forest the Breakthrough

Forest appeared to have secured a vital lead midway through the second half when Swiss winger Dan Ndoye raced through the Fulham defence and slotted the ball past goalkeeper Bernd Leno.

However, celebrations inside the City Ground were cut short after a VAR review ruled the goal out for a marginal offside, leaving the score level.

Ndoye’s involvement in the match nearly produced another turning point moments earlier when he won a penalty following a challenge from Fulham defender Calvin Bassey. But the decision was overturned after officials determined that the Forest winger had been offside in the buildup.

Chances but No Finishing Touch

Despite the setback, Forest grew stronger after the interval following tactical changes from Pereira. The introduction of Ndoye and Omari Hutchinson injected pace and urgency into the hosts’ attack.

Right-back Ola Aina came closest to breaking the deadlock when his powerful strike from outside the penalty area crashed against the crossbar.

Forest pushed forward with increasing intensity in the closing stages, but Fulham’s defensive organisation held firm to secure a clean sheet.

Fulham also had moments of promise, with chances falling to attackers including Raúl Jiménez, though the visitors struggled to convert their opportunities in front of goal.

Forest Edge Out of the Bottom Three

While the match failed to produce a winner, the point proved significant for Forest. The draw lifted them out of the relegation zone on goal difference, offering a small boost in their battle to remain in the Premier League.

Nevertheless, Pereira remains without a Premier League victory since taking over as manager, adding pressure as the club approaches a crucial run of fixtures in the final stretch of the season.

Speaking after the match, Pereira praised his team’s determination and attacking effort but admitted that improved finishing will be vital if Forest are to secure their top-flight status.

Fulham Settle for a Point

For Fulham, managed by Marco Silva, the draw represented a steady if unspectacular result as the London side continue their push toward a top-half finish.

Although they defended well, Fulham may also feel they missed an opportunity to capitalise on Forest’s struggles in front of goal.

In the end, both sides had to settle for a share of the spoils in a match defined more by tension and controversy than by attacking quality.