Sat Apr 12 18:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Late Doucoure Goal Sinks Forest, City Closes In on Champions League Spot

**Nottingham, England –** Everton snatched a dramatic 1-0 victory over Nottingham Forest at the City Ground on Saturday, thanks to Abdoulaye Doucoure’s late goal. The midfielder’s curling effort in the dying seconds secured three points for Everton and dealt a significant blow to Forest’s Champions League aspirations.

Everton dominated much of the match, with Iliman Ndiaye and Jack Harrison creating numerous chances. While Forest’s Callum Hudson-Odoi tested Jordan Pickford, Everton ultimately deserved their win, according to manager Sean Dyche, who praised his team’s performance and third away win of the season.

Forest, who were missing their usual pace and power, struggled to create opportunities and offered a lackluster performance, according to manager Nuno Espirito Santo. The defeat, following a loss to Aston Villa earlier in the week, leaves them vulnerable, with Manchester City’s 5-2 win over Crystal Palace moving them within two points of third-place Forest.

The result intensifies the race for Champions League qualification. With tough fixtures remaining for Forest, including a crucial match against Tottenham, their hopes of securing a top-four finish are hanging in the balance. Nuno Espirito Santo acknowledged the pressure, stating that Forest “have to do it ourselves.” The fight for Champions League spots is far from over, with the final standings likely to be decided in the final weeks of the season.

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