Elanga’s stunning goal downs Man Utd as Forest chase Champions League spot.

Nottingham Forest took a major step toward Champions League qualification with a 1-0 victory over Manchester United on Tuesday, thanks to Anthony Elanga’s stunning solo goal.

Anthony Elanga’s brilliant solo goal helped Nottingham Forest secure a 1-0 win over Manchester United on Tuesday, moving them closer to Champions League qualification. Elanga, who was sold by United for £15 million in 2023, showcased his skills by covering more than half the pitch before finishing with precision.

The 22-year-old Swede’s remarkable strike further solidified Forest’s hold on third place, with an eight-point cushion over fourth-placed Chelsea. With just eight games left, Forest are on the verge of securing their first Champions League spot since 1980-81. This follows a season where they narrowly avoided relegation and also reached the FA Cup semi-finals for the first time in 34 years.

Despite a tough FA Cup quarter-final victory over Brighton on penalties, Forest managed to rise to the occasion against United, even with key absentees like top scorer Chris Wood and winger Callum Hudson-Odoi. The win also marked Forest’s first league double over United since the 1991-92 season.

For United, the loss was their first in eight games across all competitions, and they are still struggling to find consistency, sitting in 13th place ahead of their upcoming clash with Manchester City.

Elanga’s early goal in the fifth minute set the tone for the match. After United wasted a corner, Elanga capitalized on the opportunity, sprinting 85 meters in just nine seconds before finishing past Andre Onana. United had a few chances to respond, including headers from Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro, but they couldn’t find the equalizer.

Although United pressed in the second half with Rasmus Hojlund and Alejandro Garnacho, it was Forest who stood firm, with Matz Sels making key saves. United’s efforts, including a close-range header from Harry Maguire cleared off the line, were all in vain as Forest celebrated another highlight in their dream season.