Nottingham Forest moved within a point of Arsenal in the Premier League standings after a thrilling 4-2 triumph over Ipswich Town at Portman Road, with Anthony Elanga starring with a brace.
Meeting for the second time in under two weeks—following their dramatic FA Cup fifth-round clash—both sides initially struggled to find rhythm in a slow opening half-hour.
However, the game took a dramatic turn as Forest erupted with three goals in just six minutes before the break.
Nikola Milenkovic broke the deadlock to open the scoring, setting the stage for Elanga to net twice in quick succession, marking his first double in the iconic Garibaldi.
Ipswich found some attacking momentum after halftime, with Jens Cajuste offering a glimmer of hope.
However, any thoughts of a comeback were swiftly dismissed as Jota Silva struck on the counter to restore Forest’s three-goal cushion.
A late header from George Hirst proved inconsequential, as Nuno Espirito Santo’s men tightened their grip on third place, keeping Arsenal within sight.
Conversely, Ipswich’s survival hopes suffered another blow, as they now sit nine points adrift of safety in 18th place following Wolves’ victory over Southampton.
SPORTS MOLE’S VERDICT
“Arsenal beware: Forest close in on second after six-goal thriller with Ipswich”
Whether Mikel Arteta’s side was following this result closely is unknown, but after witnessing Forest’s explosive six-minute spree, they will surely be feeling the pressure.
The Tricky Trees were sluggish in the opening exchanges, with Ipswich arguably having the better start.
However, a defensive lapse from Kieran McKenna’s men triggered a total collapse, allowing Forest to capitalize with ruthless efficiency.
While Ipswich showed more attacking intent late in the game, their defensive frailties were laid bare, conceding three of Forest’s four goals in disappointing fashion.
With their winless run in the league stretching to 10 games in 2025, the Championship looms ever closer.
In contrast, Forest’s European ambitions remain alive and well. Ending a three-match losing streak away from home, they approached this challenge with poise and precision—fittingly marking Santo’s 50th Premier League game in charge with a commanding victory.
WHAT’S NEXT?
With the international break looming, Ipswich will resume their desperate fight for survival against Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium on April 2.
Meanwhile, Forest shifts focus to FA Cup action, where they face Brighton & Hove Albion in the quarter-finals on March 29, before returning to league duty for a high-stakes showdown against Manchester United on April 2.
