Nottingham Forest manager Vitor Pereira praised his players’ resilience after their 2-2 draw with Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium, admitting he was surprised by Elliot Anderson’s energy during the closing stages.
Forest twice came from behind to secure a valuable Premier League point, with Morgan Gibbs-White and Anderson both scoring in a performance that demonstrated the spirit Pereira wants from his squad during the final stretch of the season.
The result could prove significant as Forest continue their fight to remain in the top flight.
Vitor Pereira surprised by Elliot Anderson performance
Anderson delivered the decisive moment for Forest when he scored a powerful equaliser after Rodri had restored Manchester City’s lead.
The midfielder’s impact stood out to Pereira, who revealed he had initially expected to substitute him during the second half.
“I thought today that after 60 or 70 minutes I would need to take him off because I did not believe he would have the energy and intensity that we would need here. But it was a surprise for me because he had the energy until the end and he has the quality.” — Vitor Pereira
Anderson’s goal ensured Forest remained level after City had taken the lead for a second time.
Morgan Gibbs-White praised for leadership
Gibbs-White also played a key role in the result, scoring Forest’s first equaliser with an inventive backheel finish early in the second half.
Pereira described the midfielder as a leader within the squad and highlighted his ability to recognise attacking opportunities.
“He is a special player. He has a lot of quality. He smells the spaces, he smells the opportunities. It was a beautiful goal. But Morgan is not only a fantastic player, he is a leader. He has the character that we need.” — Vitor Pereira
Forest also relied on a crucial defensive moment in stoppage time when Murillo produced a last-ditch clearance to prevent City from scoring a late winner.
Nottingham Forest show resilience at the Etihad
Manchester City initially took the lead through Antoine Semenyo before Gibbs-White equalised. Rodri’s goal briefly restored City’s advantage, but Anderson’s strike ensured the visitors left Manchester with a point.
| Match Summary | Man City vs Forest |
|---|---|
| Final score | Man City 2-2 Nottingham Forest |
| Forest goals | Gibbs-White, Anderson |
| City goals | Semenyo, Rodri |
| Venue | Etihad Stadium |
source: sofascore match data – 5 March 2026
Having followed Forest’s campaign in recent weeks, the team’s ability to respond after setbacks has become a recurring theme. However, it remains too early to determine whether this resilience will ultimately secure Premier League survival.
Key Insights
- Nottingham Forest drew 2-2 with Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium.
- Elliot Anderson scored a second-half equaliser.
- Vitor Pereira admitted he was surprised by Anderson’s energy levels.
- Morgan Gibbs-White scored with an inventive backheel finish.
- Murillo produced a crucial late clearance to preserve the draw.
What’s Next?
Nottingham Forest now enter a decisive run of nine remaining Premier League fixtures as they attempt to secure survival.
Maintaining the level of organisation and determination shown against Manchester City could prove essential as Pereira’s side prepares for upcoming matches against teams across both ends of the table.
Can Nottingham Forest build on this result and secure their Premier League safety?
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