Nuno Espírito Santo has transformed Nottingham Forest into one of the Premier League’s most dynamic teams, capable of launching devastating attacks in transition and capitalising on turnovers within moments.

In his 50th league match in charge, Forest showcased their rapid movement and tactical fluidity at Portman Road, securing a 4-2 victory over Ipswich Town. Anthony Elanga was instrumental, constantly exploiting spaces across the frontline, culminating in a well-taken brace. Meanwhile, Callum Hudson-Odoi and Neco Williams frequently interchanged on the left flank, adding to Forest’s unpredictability.

Gibbs-White Orchestrates Forest’s Dominance

Amid the tactical versatility, Morgan Gibbs-White remained the heartbeat of the side. Captaining the team, he dictated play in midfield, encouraged by chants of “England’s No. 10” from the travelling supporters. His assist for Forest’s fourth goal marked his 40th Premier League goal involvement for the club, leaving him just four short of Ian Woan’s record.

Gibbs-White was involved early, linking up with Elanga and Hudson-Odoi to win a corner that led to a chance for Nicolás Domínguez. He then regained possession and teed up Elliot Anderson, whose strike deflected off Chris Wood in a moment of misfortune.

Forest’s first meaningful attempt came when Gibbs-White delivered a precise cross from the right to find Wood surging into the box. Positioned between Luke Woolfenden and Jacob Greaves, the striker had an excellent opportunity to break the deadlock, but his header was gathered comfortably by Ipswich goalkeeper Alex Palmer.

Forest Capitalise on Ipswich’s Defensive Lapses

Forest’s dominance was eventually rewarded in the 35th minute following a defensive mix-up that led to a corner. Ipswich’s Liam Delap failed to clear the danger, allowing Nikola Milenković to react quickest and fire an unstoppable shot into the roof of the net.

Just two minutes later, Elanga doubled Forest’s lead. Latching onto a pinpoint pass from Anderson, he outpaced a retreating Greaves before cutting inside and curling a superb strike into the far corner.

Despite the bright sunshine, Forest proved—like many teams before them this season—that when it rains at Portman Road, it pours. Four minutes after his first goal, Elanga capitalised on a long ball from Milenković. A deft header controlled the pass, a second touch created space, and with his third, he confidently slotted the ball under Palmer to make it 3-0.

Ipswich’s Struggles Continue Amid Forest’s Ruthlessness

Ipswich remain the only side across England’s top four divisions without a victory in 2025. Jens Cajuste and George Hirst managed to score late consolations, briefly reducing the deficit, but Jota Silva’s emphatic finish ensured there was no doubt about the outcome.

Even as Forest momentarily eased off, the gulf in quality was evident. With nine points separating Ipswich from safety, their Premier League status appears increasingly doomed. Barring a miraculous turnaround, the top-flight flag adorning the Cobbold Stand will likely be taken down by May.