Onuachu strikes late as Aina’s magic seals Forest’s triumph over Southampton
Onuachu scores
Published By: Kazeem Ugbodaga
By Kazeem Ugbodaga
Nottingham Forest edged Southampton 3-2 in a Premier League clash that saw Nigerian stars Paul Onuachu and Ola Aina deliver standout performances.
While Onuachu’s late header offered Southampton a glimmer of hope, it was not enough to lift the struggling Saints from the foot of the table.
The high-stakes battle at the City Ground began with Forest’s Elliot Anderson firing an unstoppable shot into the bottom corner in the 11th minute, igniting the home crowd.
Callum Hudson-Odoi doubled the lead with a stunning long-range effort just before the half-hour mark, sending Southampton into disarray.
Aina, the Nigerian international, turned provider in the 41st minute, delivering a precise cross for Chris Wood to head home Forest’s third goal.
Southampton’s defence, already under immense pressure, had no answers as Forest’s relentless attack left them trailing 3-0 at halftime.
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The second half saw Southampton attempt to claw their way back into the game. Lesley Ugochukwu’s deflected strike reduced the deficit in the 60th minute, but it was marred by a lengthy VAR check that tested the nerves of players and fans alike. Despite the Saints’ efforts, Forest’s defence held firm until stoppage time.
In the dying minutes, Mateus Fernandes whipped in a perfect corner, allowing Onuachu to rise above the Forest defenders and nod the ball into the top corner, making it 3-2.
The goal reignited Southampton’s hopes, but the referee’s whistle shortly after dashed any chance of a comeback.
The match was not without its share of controversy. Multiple VAR reviews, including a disallowed goal for Forest, added to the tension.
Southampton’s Ugochukwu narrowly escaped a red card for a reckless challenge in the closing moments, leaving fans and pundits debating the leniency of the officiating.
