Nottingham Forest started their Premier League campaign in convincing style as Brentford were demolished 3-1 at the City Ground.
Two goals from Chris Wood and a debut goal for Dan Ndoye ensured a comprehensive first half, with Igor Thiago scoring a late consolation from the penalty spot.
It was a brilliant performance from Nuno Espirito Santo’s team and highlighted just how much potential the squad has at Forest this season.
Omari Hutchinson signed for Forest yesterday, joining James McAtee as a new signing and they should both be in contention to bolster the squad next weekend at Crystal Palace.
It was the performance of one other new boy that caught the eye of Espirito Santo, however, with Ndoye grabbing himself a maiden goal in the Garibaldi.
Nottingham Forest star Dan Ndoye after scoring for Forest vs Brentford
Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images
What Nuno Espirito Santo said about Dan Ndoye
Ndoye checked in from Bologna in the summer, and he’s wasted no time in making his mark at the City Ground in front of his new supporters.
The winger was straight in from the off after Anthony Elanga joined Newcastle in the summer, grabbing his first goal with half-time in sight against Brentford.
After the game, Espirito Santo was in good form when talking to the press and he heaped praise on the Swiss winger.
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He told his press conference: “It’s very important for a player who joins the club to score on his first appearance. Talented player and we expect a lot of things from him.
“The understanding in that part of the pitch and controlling the middle of the park is really important. The three of them played really well.”
Dan Ndoye stats vs Brentford
This was a promising debut for Ndoye, even if he will be looking to improve consistently throughout the campaign as he adapts to the Premier League.
Ndoye deserves his goal after working hard, and he does look like a player who will definitely offer the Reds something during 2025/26.
Dan Ndoye stats vs Brentford Total
Touches 23
Pass Accuracy 60%
Goals 1
Crosses 2
Who Scored Rating 6.89
The Swiss international was a threat down the right-hand side and although he doesn’t look as quick as Elanga, he does look more composed in the final third.
Ndoye will hope to keep his place in the Forest team for next weekend’s game against Crystal Palace as he looks to truly settle in the Premier League.