In the seventh round of the Premier League, Nottingham Forest faced Chelsea away. Prior to the match, few were optimistic about Forest earning points at Chelsea’s home ground, especially considering Chelsea's recent strong performances. After Maresca took over, he implemented significant tactical changes that improved the team's attack. As a relegation zone team last season, it seemed unlikely that Nottingham Forest could stop Chelsea's winning streak. However, they managed to secure a 1-1 draw, which was a commendable result for them.

During the match, Chelsea clearly dominated, boasting over 67% possession and controlling much of the play. Despite a hot form from players like Palmer and Jackson, their 22 shots and 8 on target couldn't clinch a victory, ending their five-game winning streak across all competitions. Nevertheless, they remain fourth in the standings, which is still a notable achievement.

Nottingham Forest’s performance this season deserves attention. The team made extensive personnel adjustments this summer, becoming the Premier League's top spender in transfers, and the results have been promising. With 2 wins, 4 draws, and only 1 loss in their first 7 games, Forest's performance is a marked improvement from last season’s relegation struggle. Notably, they have managed to earn points against strong opponents like Liverpool, Chelsea, and Brighton, with the win over Liverpool particularly re-establishing their reputation.

From a statistical perspective, Nottingham Forest remains a defensive team, having conceded only 6 goals in 7 matches. They have received the most yellow cards (23) and 2 red cards, underscoring their defensive intensity. Their approach, often referred to as “parking the bus,” has proven successful against weaker teams. Additionally, their counterattacking capabilities and set-piece execution have played crucial roles in their points tally.

By establishing an effective defensive system and seizing counterattack opportunities, Nottingham Forest is implementing their strategy well. While it might be premature to label them as "giant killers," their performances indicate significant potential. A lineup featuring a mix of overlooked talents might just surprise many in the ongoing Premier League season.