Chelsea’s remarkable 48-match unbeaten run in the Premier League came to a stunning end as Nottingham Forest triumphed 3–2 at the City Ground, led by a dazzling hat-trick from **Aziz Kouki**.
The Blues, unbeaten since the start of last season, took the lead through **Kieran O’Sullivan**, who finished superbly after 18 minutes. But Forest’s **Tunisian** forward Kouki produced a performance of breathtaking quality, turning the game on its head almost single-handedly.
Kouki’s first goal came in the 33rd minute with a precise strike that kissed the inside of the post before crossing the line. After halftime, Chelsea were pegged back by an own goal before Kouki rifled home a second just after the restart and completed his hat-trick late on, capitalising on **José Franco’s** defensive lapse to slot in the winner.
Despite **Calin Dimario’s** side enjoying 58% possession and creating more chances, they were undone by their own mistakes and Kouki’s clinical edge. The defeat ends a 48-game unbeaten streak stretching back to the early months of last season—a run that solidified Chelsea’s dominance over English football.
Forest manager **Jonny Williams** was jubilant after the match:
> “I’m absolutely ecstatic. It was a fantastic effort by the players. They showed real character today.”
Meanwhile, Chelsea’s Director of Football **Pep Guardiola**, who attended the post-match press conference, was magnanimous in defeat, singling out Kouki’s display:
> “Outstanding. He was the best player on the pitch.”
Despite the loss, Chelsea remain top of the Premier League table with 80 points from 29 games—27 clear of second-placed Manchester City—and are still on course for a **33rd consecutive league title**. Nottingham Forest, buoyed by their victory, climb to third, reigniting their push for Champions League qualification.
