April 21, 2025 – London, England
Nottingham Forest moved into third place after a thrilling 2-1 win over Tottenham, taking control of a five-way battle for Champions League qualification. With only five matches left, the race for three remaining spots is tighter than ever.
Nottingham Forest Lead Champions League Push
Forest now sit on 60 points, just ahead of Newcastle (59), Manchester City (58), Chelsea (58), and Aston Villa (57). Liverpool and Arsenal have already locked up two of England’s five Champions League places for next season’s expanded format.
This is Nottingham Forest’s first serious Champions League challenge since the early 1980s, marking one of the Premier League’s most unexpected storylines this year.
Why the Battle Matters
Due to Premier League dominance in European competitions this season, England earned an extra Champions League berth for 2025-26.
Top five will qualify. But with just three points separating third and seventh, every result could dramatically change the standings.
Forest, who barely avoided relegation last season, now control their destiny.
Key Fixtures Remaining
Nottingham Forest (60 pts):
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Brentford (H)
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Crystal Palace (A)
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Leicester (H)
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West Ham (A)
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Chelsea (H)
Newcastle United (59 pts):
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Ipswich (H)
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Brighton (A)
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Chelsea (H)
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Arsenal (A)
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Everton (H)
Manchester City (58 pts):
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Aston Villa (H)
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Wolves (H)
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Southampton (A)
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Bournemouth (H)
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Fulham (A)
Chelsea (58 pts):
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Everton (H)
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Liverpool (H)
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Newcastle (A)
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Manchester United (H)
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Nottingham Forest (A)
Aston Villa (57 pts):
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Manchester City (A)
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Fulham (H)
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Bournemouth (A)
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Tottenham (H)
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Manchester United (A)
What’s at Stake for Nottingham Forest
Forest could return to Europe’s biggest stage for the first time since the 1980-81 season. Their remaining schedule includes tough challenges, including a decisive final-day clash against Chelsea.
Manchester City have the easiest run-in on paper. Chelsea face the most difficult schedule, with matches against Liverpool, Newcastle, and Manchester United still to come.
Aston Villa must upset City to stay alive in the race, while Newcastle are dealing with manager Eddie Howe’s hospitalization during a critical stretch.
A bonus twist remains: If either Spurs or Manchester United win the Europa League, they could still grab a Champions League spot even if they miss out through league position.
Current Premier League Top 7
| Position | Team | Points |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Liverpool | 81 |
| 2 | Arsenal | 77 |
| 3 | Nottingham Forest | 60 |
| 4 | Newcastle United | 59 |
| 5 | Manchester City | 58 |
| 6 | Chelsea | 58 |
| 7 | Aston Villa | 57 |
Final Word
With the title race nearly settled and relegation battles easing, the real drama now lies in the fight for Champions League places. Nottingham Forest lead the way, but with every match carrying massive stakes, expect the race to go down to the wire on May 25.
