Nottingham Forest secures pre-season victory against Blackburn in Portugal
Nottingham Forest secured a 3-0 victory over Blackburn in a pre-season friendly match held at the Estádio da Nora in Portugal. The win marked their second pre-season outing, following an earlier 2-0 win against Notts County.
The match saw Nottingham Forest dominate from the outset. The first goal came from Igor Jesus towards the end of the first half. In the second half, Arnaud Kalimuendo extended the lead, followed by a goal from Taiwo Awoniyi, sealing the 3-0 scoreline.
Awoniyi’s Impact and Winning Mentality
Taiwo Awoniyi, who scored the third goal, also wore the captain’s armband during the second half of Forest’s last two pre-season matches. Following the win, the Nigeria international emphasised the importance of cultivating a strong winning mentality within the squad as preparations continue for the new Premier League season.
Awoniyi highlighted that pre-season is crucial for building rhythm and fitness. He stated that the intense work done now, including running, is where a winning mentality begins. He believes that achieving anything during the season starts with the effort put in during this preparatory phase.
The striker also noted the positive experience of being back with the team, fostering understanding among the players. He stressed the importance of getting minutes on the field to be fully prepared for the upcoming season.
Match Dynamics and Player Line-ups
The friendly match was played in hot conditions in Portugal, leading to a hydration break in the first half. Nottingham Forest maintained control of possession throughout the game, limiting Blackburn’s attacking opportunities.
Nottingham Forest’s starting lineup featured Sels in goal, with a back three of Jair, Milenkovic, and Morato. Neco Williams and Aina played as wing-backs, while Dominguez and Yates were in midfield. McAtee and Gibbs-White supported frontman Igor Jesus in attack.
Blackburn’s lineup included Toth in goal, with a defensive line of Alebiousu, McLoughlin, Atcheson, and Yuri Ribeiro. The midfield comprised Montgomery, Tavares, Afolayan, Cantwell, and Morishita, supporting Gudjohnsen upfront.
Several substitutions were made by both teams during the match, which contributed to a slower pace in the second half. Despite Blackburn’s attempts to gain possession, Nottingham Forest effectively managed the game to secure their victory.
Absences and Preparations
Nottingham Forest was without several key players for the match against Blackburn due to injuries and post-World Cup commitments. Centre-back Murillo, full-back Nicolo Savona, and winger Callum Hudson-Odoi, who are recovering from injuries, travelled with the team to Albufeira but did not participate in the game.
Winger Omari Hutchinson was also rested due to muscle tightness. Additionally, striker Chris Wood, midfielder Ibrahim Sangare, and winger Dan Ndoye had not yet joined the squad following their participation in the World Cup.
Head coach Oliver Glasner had previously indicated that Wood and Sangare were expected to join the team in Portugal, with Ndoye returning at a later date. The team continues its preparations for the new season, focusing on integrating players and building match fitness.
The match concluded with Nottingham Forest maintaining their 3-0 lead, marking a successful friendly outing in Portugal.
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Source: tribalfootball.com
