Anfield Stunner Sours Slot's Early Reign
Arne Slot experienced his first taste of defeat as Liverpool manager in a shocking upset at Anfield, where Nottingham Forest emerged victorious. The Dutch boss did not hide his frustration, openly bemoaning a loss to a team he expected to finish in the bottom half of the table.
The 'Big Disappointment' That Fueled a Rival
Following the match, a frank Slot labelled the result a "big disappointment" and a "setback", questioning Forest's credentials. Callum Hudson-Odoi had scored the winner for Nuno Espirito Santo's side, securing their first win at Liverpool in any competition since 1969. At the time, Forest had shown promise with an unbeaten start to the season, but their history of battling relegation in the two previous campaigns led many, including Slot, to predict a drop in form.
Slot's post-match comments, however, would soon look premature. Forest confounded expectations, losing just four of their opening twenty games. They remained in the top four as late as April and eventually finished seventh, securing a Europa League spot.
From Underdogs to Title Threats
By the time Liverpool travelled to the City Ground for the return fixture in mid-January, the narrative had completely shifted. Forest took an early lead through Chris Wood, and despite a late equaliser from Diogo Jota, they held on for a point. Liverpool, with 23 attempts on goal, were frustrated by a resilient Forest defence and goalkeeper Matz Sels.
This result meant Forest were one of only three teams – alongside Arsenal and Fulham – that Liverpool failed to beat all season. Slot's tune had changed dramatically. He now acknowledged Nuno's side as genuine threats, stating, "I don't think they're up there because of luck. They have been very hard and difficult to play against for every team."
Ultimately, Liverpool's early defeat to Forest and the subsequent draw did not prevent them from dominating the Premier League and being crowned champions, but it served as a stark lesson in the unpredictability of English football.
