Nottingham Forest kicked off their pre-season campaign with an emphatic 3-0 victory over Blackburn Rovers in a friendly match on July 22, 2026. The contest, played at Forest's training ground, allowed manager Nuno Espírito Santo to assess his squad ahead of the upcoming Premier League season.

Match Overview

Both sides fielded a mix of first-team regulars and academy prospects, with the focus on fitness and sharpness rather than the result. However, Nottingham Forest's superior quality shone through as they dominated from the first whistle. Blackburn Rovers, preparing for their Championship campaign, struggled to contain the home side's fluid passing and movement.

Key Moments

• Early Goal: Forest took the lead in the 12th minute when new signing Anthony Elanga cut inside from the left and fired a low shot into the far corner. The Swedish winger showed immediate promise in his first appearance of pre-season.
• Second Goal: The lead was doubled just before half-time. A swift counter-attack saw Morgan Gibbs-White release Taiwo Awoniyi, who finished coolly past the goalkeeper. Awoniyi's movement and hold-up play troubled the Blackburn defence throughout.
• Third Goal: In the 67th minute, substitute Chris Wood headed home from a corner, nodding in a delivery from Danilo. The goal capped a solid performance from the Forest attack, which created several other chances.

Tactical Approach

Nottingham Forest deployed a high press and quick transitions, a hallmark of Espírito Santo's preferred system. The full-backs, Gonçalo Silva and Ola Aina, pushed high to provide width, while the midfield trio of Danilo, Ryan Yates, and Morgan Gibbs-White controlled the center of the park. Blackburn attempted to play out from the back but were often forced into errors.

Player Performances

Anthony Elanga was the standout player, earning praise for his direct running and clinical finishing. Goalkeeper Odysseas Vlachodimos had a quiet evening but made a crucial save early in the second half to preserve the clean sheet. For Blackburn, young midfielder Adam Wharton impressed in patches, showing composure on the ball despite the pressure.

Pre-Season Implications

This victory provides Nottingham Forest with a confidence boost as they continue their preparations. The squad will now focus on upcoming friendlies against higher-tier opposition. Blackburn Rovers coach Jon Dahl Tomasson will look for improvements in defensive organization and ball retention ahead of their Championship opener.