Sandro Tonali marked his return to competitive football after a 10-month suspension with a solid performance as Newcastle United secured a dramatic victory over Nottingham Forest in the Carabao Cup. The match between Newcastle vs Nottingham Forest, held at the City Ground, ended in a 1-1 draw after regular time, with the Magpies ultimately prevailing in a tense penalty shootout. Sean Longstaff’s decisive spot-kick clinched the win after Forest’s Ibrahim Sangare and Taiwo Awoniyi missed their attempts.
Tonali’s Long-Awaited Return
For Newcastle fans, the return of Italy international Sandro Tonali was a significant moment. The midfielder had been serving a 10-month suspension for breaching betting rules, a punishment that sidelined him for nearly a year.
Sandro Tonali, starting in the heart of Newcastle’s midfield, showed little sign of rust as he played 60 minutes before being substituted. His passing was crisp, his positioning was intelligent, and he even came close to scoring, only to be denied by Forest’s debutant goalkeeper Carlos Miguel.
Early Drama Sets the Tone
The match exploded into life almost immediately, with Joe Willock giving Newcastle the lead after just 18 seconds. The midfielder, who had missed the end of last season due to an Achilles injury, pounced on a rebound after Carlos Miguel parried Alexander Isak’s shot into his path. Willock’s quick reaction and clinical finish set the tone for what would be an action-packed encounter.
Newcastle had a golden opportunity to double their lead just minutes later. Alexander Isak, looking sharp, played a perfectly weighted through ball to Sandro Tonali, who found himself one-on-one with Miguel. However, the Forest goalkeeper was equal to the task, keeping out Tonali’s effort with an impressive save.
Forest Fight Back
Despite Newcastle’s early dominance, Nottingham Forest began to grow into the game. The home side, featuring several debutants, gradually found their rhythm. Jota Silva, making his first start for Forest, was particularly impressive. The Portuguese winger, signed in the summer, was a constant threat down the left flank, using his pace and trickery to unsettle Newcastle’s defense.
Forest’s persistence paid off in the 38th minute when Jota produced a moment of magic to level the score. A well-worked move saw the ball fall to Jota just inside the box, and the winger unleashed a stunning half-volley that flew past Newcastle keeper Nick Pope, ricocheting in off the woodwork. It was a sensational strike and a fitting way for Jota to open his account for the club.
Injury Concerns for Newcastle
Newcastle’s night took a turn for the worse when Joe Willock was forced off with what appeared to be a thigh injury. The midfielder, who had only recently returned from a lengthy spell on the sidelines, pulled up shortly after his goal and was unable to continue. Willock’s injury will be a concern for Newcastle manager Eddie Howe, who has already had to deal with a number of injury issues this season.
With Willock off the pitch, Newcastle lost some of their early momentum, and the game became more balanced as Forest grew in confidence.
Penalty Shootout Drama
With the match ending 1-1 after 90 minutes, the tie was decided by a penalty shootout. Newcastle held their nerve, converting all five of their spot-kicks. Sean Longstaff stepped up to take the final penalty, coolly slotting it past Miguel to secure Newcastle’s place in the next round.
Nottingham Forest, on the other hand, were left to rue missed opportunities. Both Ibrahim Sangare and Taiwo Awoniyi saw their penalties saved by Nick Pope, who was the hero of the shootout for Newcastle.
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