Nottingham Forest kicked off their 2025/2026 Premier League campaign with a 3-1 win over Brentford at the City Ground.

The Reds took an early lead against the visitors courtesy of a Chris Wood goal from a corner. Forest maintained control and struck twice late in the half with goals in quick succession as Dan Ndoye scored his first for the club, whilst Wood got his second of the match.

Brentford reduced the deficit after the break, as Igor Thiago converted for the Bees from the penalty spot. However, this proved to be merely a consolation for the visitors, as they struggled to get back into the match.

But what were the key takeaways from this match?

Forest’s new potential philosophy under Nuno:

Nuno Espirito Santo’s side had their best season since promotion back in 2022, finishing seventh and qualifying for the Europa League. It could be said that the Reds were known for their counter-attacking football, which struggled towards the end of last season, but it seems they now have a new style of play available to them.

Forest dominated the game, having 55% possession and pressing from the attack with high intensity, which made it difficult for the Bees to play out and find momentum.

This looks different to last season, where it was more reliant on quick breaks, and we may see this change from Forest more throughout the campaign.

Andrews’ Bees struggle to show sting:

It was Keith Andrews’ first Premier League game in charge of Brentford, but his side struggled to show the threat they did under Thomas Frank, and a key factor for this could be missing the likes of Bryan Mbeumo and Yoanne Wissa.

Brentford’s best chance of the game came from the spot, where Igor Thiago coolly slotted home, but apart from this, the Bees struggled to cause the Forest defence any problems or create any dangerous chances from open play.

A solution to this problem could be the club’s new and record signing Dango Ouattara, who could bring some speed and potentially needed creativity to the Bees’ attack.

Ibrahim Sangare could be pivotal for Forest:

Sangare has struggled to stay fit and secure consistent minutes for the Reds since signing in 2023, but his performance against Brentford showed that if he stays fit, he could be a key figure for Nuno’s side.

The Ivorian looked sharp and composed, forming a strong partnership with Elliot Anderson. His ball-winning and distribution helped Forest dominate midfield.

This could be a role he can thrive in if he stays fit and gets consistent minutes.

Brentford need stronger midfield presence:

One area Andrews’ side may need to improve if they are to have a similar season to last is to strengthen their midfield, through a change of formation or bringing in some new additions.

The Bees struggled to gain control of the midfield and compete, lacking a player like Christian Norgaard to battle for the ball and relieve pressure on the defence.

Jordan Henderson could help play this role alongside Mathias Jensen or Yehor Yarmoliuk, as Norgaard did last season, or another addition could help strengthen Brentford’s midfield.

Chris Wood picks up where he left off:

There may have been questions over whether Wood can continue leading the line and be the main output for Nuno’s side, but the New Zealand international kicked off the new campaign in style, with a brace against Brentford.

Wood’s second goal showed how lethal and composed the 33-year-old still is, rounding the keeper after anticipating a pinpoint pass from Elliot Anderson, scoring his 91st goal in the Premier League.

With new additions in the attack with Dan Ndoye, Omari Hutchinson and James McAtee, Wood could be supplied with even more chances in front of goal that can help him reach 100 goals in the top flight.

Forest will aim to continue their momentum away at Crystal Palace while Brentford will seek a response at home against Aston Villa.