Ryan Yates
Nottingham Forest’s aspirations for a top-eight finish in the standings took a hit as they suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat against Braga in Portugal. The match was decided by an unfortunate own goal from midfielder Ryan Yates, leaving the Reds facing an uphill battle to secure automatic qualification for the round of 16. The performance was met with dissatisfaction from the travelling supporters, who voiced their discontent at the final whistle.
Ryan Yates said: “Very disappointing. I feel we controlled most parts of the game. A very good team away from home. I thought we stifled them in the first half. We had opportunities to make a breakthrough, we don’t. Then, I unfortunately make a mistake at the other end. Then we could never get a foothold in the game after that. When you get handed an opportunity and you don’t take it, you get punished. I have to hold my hands up. I should have done better. We are frustrated as I think we have done enough to win the game. It is frustrating when results don’t go your way. We have missed an opportunity and that’s why we’re frustrated – not that we were terrible on the night. It is fine margins. We have to keep working and put that right. No negativity in the dressing room, that’s for sure.”
The match against Braga was a stark contrast to Nottingham Forest’s recent performance at home, where they held Arsenal to a goalless draw. Despite the setback in Portugal, Yates expressed confidence in the progress made under head coach Sean Dyche. The midfielder emphasized the team’s determination to rectify their mistakes and maintain a positive atmosphere within the squad.
Forest’s current challenge lies in overcoming the narrow margins that have cost them valuable points. The team must now focus on capitalizing on opportunities and maintaining consistency in their performances to achieve their European ambitions. With a supportive dressing room and a clear vision under Dyche, Forest remains optimistic about turning their fortunes around in the coming fixtures.
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