Levi Colwill’s decisive second-half goal secured Chelsea a tense 1-0 win over Nottingham Forest, confirming their return to the Champions League next season and ending Forest’s hopes of a top-five finish.
The defender’s close-range finish ensured Enzo Maresca’s side clinched fourth place in the Premier League, a result that was both expected and essential.
Maresca later confirmed that Champions League qualification was key to shaping the club’s summer transfer plans.
Chelsea’s win also sets the stage for their upcoming UEFA Conference League final against Real Betis in Poland, offering the chance to cap the season with European silverware.
Despite defeat, Forest still achieved a major milestone, securing seventh place and a spot in the Conference League—a remarkable accomplishment just three years after returning to the Premier League following a 23-year absence.
Though they faded late in the season—winning just two of their last eight matches—Forest can reflect proudly on their resurgence under Nuno Espirito Santo.
A cagey affair at the City Ground lacked the high drama typically expected with Champions League stakes on the line. Both sides had early chances, with Pedro Neto and Chris Wood sending efforts over the bar.
But it was Colwill who broke the deadlock five minutes into the second half, tapping home to seal the win for Chelsea.
Forest fought hard but struggled to find the cutting edge needed to respond. Their best opportunity came in stoppage time when Wood again fired over.
While the defeat stung, the achievement of qualifying for European competition for the first time since 1996 stands as a testament to Forest’s progress.
At full-time, Chelsea’s substitutes raced onto the pitch to celebrate a hard-earned return to Europe’s elite.
With an average starting XI age of just over 24 this season—the youngest in the league—Chelsea’s project under Maresca is beginning to show promise after a period of uncertainty.
For Forest, the disappointment of falling short of the Champions League shouldn’t overshadow a season of major progress.
Nuno has fostered a cohesive and spirited squad, and while the Conference League may not offer the same prestige, it presents a genuine opportunity for success on the European stage.
As Chelsea look ahead to a European final and Forest prepare for continental competition next season, both clubs can take pride in campaigns that point toward brighter futures.
