Nottingham Forest’s push for automatic qualification in the UEFA Europa League (UEL) suffered a major setback after a narrow 1–0 defeat to SC Braga in Portugal. A cruel second-half own goal from Ryan Yates proved decisive, leaving The Tricky Trees outside the top eight with one group match remaining.
Played on a wet and gloomy evening at the Estádio Municipal, the match reflected the conditions—scrappy, tense, and low on quality—until a dramatic second half turned the game on its head.
First Half: Few Chances, Little Rhythm
Forest began with intent as Morgan Gibbs-White tested Braga goalkeeper Lukáš Horníček from a curling free-kick. Captain Ryan Yates followed with a long-range effort, but the Braga stopper remained untroubled.
The hosts struggled to create clear openings, yet came closest on 37 minutes, when Victor Gómez’s teasing cross was met by Gabri Martínez, who nodded just wide. Braga nearly snatched a lead before the break as Florian Grillitsch headed into the side netting in stoppage time.
The first half ended scoreless—but with tension building.
Second Half Drama: Penalty Miss and Costly Own Goal
Braga started the second period with more urgency. Ricardo Horta wasted a golden chance early on after clever play from Martínez.
Forest responded strongly and was awarded a penalty when Nicolò Savona was sandwiched between two defenders. However, Horníček once again denied Gibbs-White, diving low to his left to keep the score level.
That moment proved decisive.
Just one minute later, Horta combined with Fran Navarro, and his square ball across the face of the goal was turned into the net by the unfortunate Ryan Yates. Braga were ahead.
Woodwork, Pressure, and Late Frustration
Both teams came inches from scoring again. Ola Aina rattled the crossbar with a thunderous strike, while Horta struck the post at the other end.
Forest pushed desperately for an equaliser. Dan Ndoye eventually found Yates with a late header, but it was deflected over. Their frustrations grew, and the night worsened when Elliott Anderson was shown a red card late on for dissent.
Despite their efforts, Forest could not find a way back.
What This Means for Forest and Braga
- Nottingham Forest:
Now outside the top eight, Forest must beat Ferencvárosi TC at home in their final group match to reach the knockout stages. They will do so without Elliott Anderson, suspended after his red card. - SC Braga:
The Portuguese side is now in pole position for a top-eight finish, with momentum firmly on their side.
Kenyan Fans: Back Your Team on Bangbet
For Kenyan football fans following the Europa League, this final group match is a must-watch. Whether you’re backing Forest to bounce back or Braga to continue their charge, Bangbet is your home of winners.
Bangbet offers:
- High odds on UEFA Europa League matches
- Fast deposits & withdrawals via M-Pesa
- Live betting and cash-out options
👉 Join Bangbet today and place your bets before the next UEL kick-off. Bet smart. Win big. Bang Blast!
Final Word
A missed penalty, an own goal, and a red card—this was a night of fine margins for Nottingham Forest. With one game left, their European fate is still in their hands. For Braga, this win could be the step that sends them straight into the last 16.
All eyes now turn to the final matchday.
