Forest's Commanding Victory Puts Europa League Campaign Back on Track
Nottingham Forest delivered a performance that resonated far beyond the City Ground on Thursday night, securing a crucial 3-0 victory against Swedish side Malmo in the Europa League. While the occasion couldn't eclipse the legendary 1979 European Cup final between these same clubs, the win was vital for the present, reigniting Forest's push for the knockout stages with goals from Ryan Yates, Arnaud Kalimuendo, and Nikola Milenkovic.
A Night Bridging Past and Present Glory
The match was steeped in history before a ball was even kicked. Veterans from the 1979 European Cup final were paraded on the pitch, a poignant reminder of the club's glorious past under Brian Clough. That night in Munich, a 1-0 win over Malmo secured the ultimate continental prize. This modern iteration, under the ownership of Evangelos Marinakis, is determined to restore Forest to the European elite, and this comprehensive win was a significant step on that journey.
The current triumph was built on a solid team performance. Captain Ryan Yates broke the deadlock in the 28th minute, setting the tone for a dominant display. The lead was doubled just before half-time by summer signing Arnaud Kalimuendo, who finally opened his account for the club. Defender Nikola Milenkovic then put the result beyond any doubt with a 59th-minute strike, sealing a perfect night for the Reds.
Kalimuendo's Breakthrough in a Crowded Attack
For Arnaud Kalimuendo, his first Forest goal was a moment of immense personal relief. The French forward, a £50 million acquisition, had struggled for opportunities amidst managerial changes from Nuno Espirito Santo to Ange Postecoglou and now Sean Dyche. His finish, hooked in expertly from a tight angle after Yates' initial header was saved, was more difficult than it looked.
Despite his promising display, which could have yielded a hat-trick, Kalimuendo faces a tough battle for regular Premier League action. Dyche appears to favour a system utilising Morgan Gibbs-White in an advanced role alongside the powerful Igor Jesus. With Chris Wood and Taiwo Awoniyi also returning from injury, competition for forward places is fierce. While the club insists the 23-year-old will not be sold in January, his long-term future remains a topic of speculation, with admirers in France, Italy, and Germany.
McAtee's Uphill Battle for Midfield Minutes
Kalimuendo's fellow summer signing, James McAtee, finds himself in a similar predicament. The England Under-21 international, who also cost a significant fee, was making only his fourth start. He provided the cross that led to the second goal and showed some neat touches, but the performance lacked the confidence of a player accustomed to being a central figure.
The primary obstacle for McAtee is the outstanding form of Morgan Gibbs-White. Under Dyche, Gibbs-White has become undroppable, scoring in each of his last three Premier League games. Dyche values athletes in his midfield, and with Gibbs-White and Elliot Anderson firmly established, McAtee faces a clear challenge to dislodge them and claim a regular starting spot.
This victory was more than just three points; it was a statement of intent. For owner Evangelos Marinakis, the Europa League represents the short-term route back to the top table of European football. For players like Kalimuendo and McAtee, staying in this competition provides precious opportunities to shine and convince their manager they are ready for the weekly demands of the Premier League.
