Every word Nuno said on ‘big’ Nottingham Forest moment, enjoying a beer and Elanga winner

Nottingham Forest showed their strength of character as they came from behind to beat Aston Villa 2-1 on the banks of the Trent.

Head coach Nuno Espirito Santo pointed to the “amazing reaction” of his players in a victory which took the Reds up to fourth in the Premier League table. And the Portuguese also acknowledged the part played by the City Ground crowd in helping the hosts turn the game around.

Less than three minutes after Nicolas Dominguez was thwarted by an incredible save by Emi Martinez, Jhon Duran had put Villa ahead just past the hour mark. Forest could have easily assumed that the day would not be theirs after Chris Wood’s goal against substitute Anthony Elanga was disallowed for offside. However, Elanga won the match in extra time as Nikola Milenkovic equalized in the final minutes.
If the Reds can continue to play this well, there will be more talk of a push for European football. Nuno is adamant about maintaining composure, but he did give in. His team deserved an additional day off and a few beers for their triumph on Saturday. Here is what the Portuguese had to say after the final whistle.

On coming from behind to win…

“It says a lot about the character, especially after what happened in the game. Both teams were very equal in the first half; both very organised with no gaps. Villa tried to control us and we tried to control them. We allowed possession to them and they allowed possession to us but without threat – for both teams, except with set-pieces.

Martinez’s incredible save was the game-changing moment, and Villa then scored. The guys’ response after it was incredible. The fans were a big assistance.

“It could have been game over after Chris’ goal was disallowed, but it went the other way. The boys began sprinting and running after the supporters responded and supported the team. For us all, we accomplished a significant milestone.

On whether Forest can continue to compete at the top end of the table…

“We are competing against all the teams in the Premier League. It’s not about that, it’s about preparing for the next one, focusing on the task ahead of you and realising that you didn’t achieve anything.

“Today is a big moment, let’s enjoy it together – all the fans and players. Enjoy it, have a beer.

However, we are aware that Brentford’s next match will be extremely difficult. You simply observe how many goals they score at home. That’s what matters most, and I’m working on it now, game after game.

“I believe we should have fun because tonight and the previous game—the triumph over Manchester United—are memorable occasions. Enjoy them, especially since the fans and I want to do it together. It was a very special day. Thank you, because that was really, really special.

On Elanga scoring…

“I think it means a lot for him. We have been asking for more actions from him.

“But more than just Anthony, I think it means a lot for the squad to realise and understand that it doesn’t matter if you start or not. It really doesn’t matter.

“When we make subs, we realize how crucial bench energy is. Anthony made a significant contribution today, and in earlier games, others did the same.

For instance, what can you say about (Willy) Boly? He hasn’t played in a while, but when he does, he has a huge impact on the game and saves us in the closing seconds.

“I think we can compete as long as we realize that, and I keep telling you guys and them that. Given that the squad is the focus, I believe we can compete.

On Milenkovic scoring in success games…

“I hope it continues. He did really well besides just the goal. He gives something special to the team.”

On Wood’s goal being chalked off…

“It took a long time because it was a very close decision. But it changed it, because I think it flipped the game.

“We reacted to that incident, and reacted amazing. That is why I have given them one day more off, because they truly deserve it – especially after the two difficult away games and a hard week. Now they can rest for the next one.”

On Martinez’s save…

“I was upset in that moment! It was a big save. Remarkable.

“That’s not about anything technical, it is pure instinct and reflexes. It was amazing. I wish I had the quality to do that once but I didn’t!”

Regarding if playing in Europe during the middle of the week affected Villa…

It’s really challenging. Villa had three days to recuperate, and I think the players are fully healed after seventy-two hours, so I’m not sure if there was a noticeable effect on the game.

However, competing in the Champions League and then the Premier League, which is just as difficult as the Champions League, is a massive ask. I give Villa credit for this since they are truly remarkable.

After receiving a few knocks…

Yates and Murillo both did. Big collisions and twisted ankles—I’m not sure what. Hopefully nothing major, but we’ll evaluate.