Liverpool’s unbeaten run under new manager Arne Slot came to an unexpected halt on Saturday, as Nottingham Forest secured a 1-0 victory at Anfield. In other Premier League action, Erling Haaland’s brace led Manchester City to a 2-1 win over Brentford, propelling them three points clear at the top of the league. Earlier in the day, Manchester United eased the pressure on Erik ten Hag with a commanding 3-0 victory at Southampton.
Nottingham Forest ended a 55-year winless streak at Anfield with a decisive strike from Callum Hudson-Odoi, who netted the only goal of the match 18 minutes from time. Despite a perfect start to the season, including a 3-0 victory over Manchester United, Liverpool struggled after the international break.
“The result is frustrating, and we cannot be satisfied with our performance,” said Slot. “It was a disjointed game, and we created very few chances. We must improve our ball control and avoid losing possession in critical areas.”
The win for Forest lifts them into fifth place with eight points from four games. Forest manager Nuno Espirito Santo praised his team’s resilience: “The players handled the pressure well. Despite being on the back foot, we stayed in the game and seized our moment.”
Manchester City capitalized on Liverpool’s defeat to extend their perfect record to four games, thanks to Erling Haaland’s remarkable form. The Norwegian striker’s powerful, deflected shot leveled the score before he showcased his strength and finesse to score the winner, beating Brentford’s Mark Flekken with a deft chip. Haaland, who narrowly missed out on a record third consecutive Premier League hat-trick, now holds a record nine goals in the first four games of the season.
“He’s an incredible machine in front of goal,” said City’s Jack Grealish, who noted Haaland’s resilience despite a recent personal loss. “His mental strength is truly remarkable.”
Aston Villa climbed to third place after Everton once again squandered a two-goal lead. Dwight McNeil and Dominic Calvert-Lewin had given Everton a promising start at Villa Park, but Villa’s Ollie Watkins struck twice around halftime, and Jhon Duran’s long-range goal secured a 3-2 victory for Villa, their third win in four games.
Brighton remained unbeaten but could not break down Ipswich in a goalless draw at the Amex. Crystal Palace fought back from 2-0 down to draw 2-2 with Leicester, thanks to a double from Jean-Philippe Mateta. West Ham also salvaged a late 1-1 draw at Fulham with a goal from Danny Ings.
