Nottingham Forest kept their European ambitions alive with a battling 1-1 draw against Crystal Palace in a tense Premier League encounter. A quick response goal from Murillo, following Eberechi Eze’s penalty opener, earned Forest a crucial point as they continue their unexpected push for Champions League qualification.
The result leaves Forest with a fighting chance of finishing in the top five, a remarkable turnaround for a club that narrowly avoided relegation last season. With just three matches left — a derby clash against Leicester, a trip to West Ham, and a tough final day fixture against Chelsea — every point is vital. This draw, achieved with grit and spirit, could prove decisive.
After a disappointing run of four defeats in five matches, including an FA Cup semi-final loss to Manchester City, Forest were in desperate need of a result. Their resolve was tested early as Palace, buoyed by their upcoming FA Cup final and a lively home crowd, dominated the opening exchanges. Chris Richards came close from a corner, and the hosts looked dangerous, but Forest’s defence remained organized and composed.
Forest nearly took the lead when Tyrick Mitchell misjudged a header back to his goalkeeper, Dean Henderson, who reacted quickly to prevent an own goal. Soon after, Morgan Gibbs-White led a counterattack that ended with Anthony Elanga testing Henderson. Palace responded strongly after the break, with Wembley hero Ismaïla Sarr twice going close.
The breakthrough came in the 64th minute. Sarr delivered a precise cross to Mitchell, who was brought down by Matz Sels inside the box. Although the referee initially waved play on, VAR intervened and awarded a penalty. Eze stepped up and confidently converted, reclaiming spot-kick duties after a missed attempt by Jean-Philippe Mateta in the FA Cup semi-final.
Forest, to their credit, hit back almost immediately. A corner led to a shot from Neco Williams, which was heading wide before Murillo instinctively redirected it into the net, sparking wild celebrations among the visiting fans. The Brazilian’s goal showcased not only his attacking instincts but also the never-say-die attitude that has defined Forest’s campaign.
Murillo’s evening ended prematurely when he was forced off with an injury in the closing stages, adding to Forest’s concerns about their squad depth. With key players like Callum Hudson-Odoi already sidelined, further injuries could hinder their late-season push. Nonetheless, Forest held firm despite late pressure from Palace, including a thunderous strike from Eze that rattled the crossbar and a disallowed injury-time goal from Eddie Nketiah due to offside.
Palace, unchanged from the side that dismantled Aston Villa, will feel they had enough chances to win. But with the FA Cup final looming and midfielder Adam Wharton limping off after Eze’s goal, their focus may already be shifting to Wembley.
For Forest, the character shown in salvaging this point was encouraging. They remain underdogs in the race for European football but continue to defy expectations. Their season, full of highs and lows, still has the potential for a memorable finish. With the top five within reach, the dream of returning to the European stage is very much alive.
