Chelsea dismantle Forest to take commanding first-leg lead
Chelsea produced a dominant performance at Drogba Arena to secure a 4–0 victory over Nottingham Forest in the UEFA Champions League Quarter Final First Leg, putting one foot in the semi-finals. Manager Calin Dimario’s high-pressing system once again overpowered a side attempting to play a controlled tiki-taka game.
Clinical finishing defines the night
Facundo Quiroga broke the deadlock with a bullet header on 29 minutes, before Kieran O’Sullivan doubled the advantage midway through the second half with a composed finish from inside the box. The pressure told on Forest, as defender Massimo Frigerio turned the ball into his own net just two minutes later.
Joseph Haigh capped off the display in the 83rd minute, rising highest to nod home from close range after a teasing cross from Louis Kerremans. Chelsea controlled 57% possession and outshot Forest 24–1, registering an xG of 3.09 to their opponents’ 0.10.
Player of the Match: Joseph Haigh
The experienced winger was in imperious form, recording one goal, one assist, and ten key passes across 90 minutes. His relentless energy down the left flank earned him an 8.6 rating and plaudits from supporters and pundits alike.
“We stuck to our plan and made the most of every chance,” Haigh told reporters post-match. “We’ve built a great foundation for the second leg.”
Dimario praises ruthlessness
Manager Calin Dimario praised his side’s execution:
“From start to finish, it was professional. The mentality in Europe is what separates good teams from great ones — and this group wants to be remembered as great.”
Chelsea’s relentless European campaign continues as they prepare for the second leg, already holding a dominant aggregate advantage.
Final Score: Chelsea 4–0 Nottingham Forest
Goals: Quiroga (29’), O’Sullivan (71’), Frigerio OG (73’), Haigh (83’)
Player of the Match: Joseph Haigh (Chelsea)
Category: Match Report, UEFA Champions League