Premier League: Nottingham Forest beat a disjointed Chelsea 3-1

Chelsea suffered a humiliating 3-1 Premier League defeat to second-division side Nottingham Forest on Monday, ending any hopes of a top-five finish that would guarantee Champions League football next season.

It was the sixth successive defeat for the lethargic and error-ridden London side after high-spirited Forest took the lead inside two minutes through a sharp header from Taiwo Awoniyi, who added a breakaway goal in the 52nd minute. Igor Jesus converted a penalty in the 15th minute.

Chelsea talisman Cole ⁠Palmer had a penalty saved just before half-time after 18-year-old winger Jesse Shaun ⁠Derry was taken to hospital following a head-to-head fight ‌with Zach Abbott. Chelsea keeper Robert Sanchez and Forest substitute Morgan Gibbs-White suffered head injuries in the second half but both walked off the pitch.

HIGHLIGHTS – Chelsea vs Nottingham Forest

Joao Pedro scored a spectacular consolation goal in the 93rd minute.

Forest, who are still mathematically out of relegation danger, left several first-choice players on the bench ahead of Thursday’s Europa League semi-final second leg against Aston Villa.

Published on May 4, 2026