Sean Dyche expressed his disappointment after Nottingham Forest missed several opportunities in a goalless draw against Sturm Graz in the Europa League. Despite dominating with 1.41 expected goals compared
to their opponents' 0.07, Forest failed to score at Merkur Arena. Key moments included Ryan Yates' header being cleared off the line and Morgan Gibbs-White's penalty being saved.
Maurice Malone thought he had scored after capitalising on a rebound, but his goal was disallowed for offside. Nicolas Dominguez nearly clinched victory with a long-range shot that hit the post and crossbar in the final moments. Dyche found it difficult to reconcile the result, stating, "I think it's both frustration and being pleased with a point. "
Dyche acknowledged the team's limited resources but felt they should have secured a win given their performance. "We created so many good chances," he noted, highlighting their dominance and threat from set-pieces and open play. The inability to convert these opportunities left him frustrated.
Thank you for your outstanding support in Graz, Reds. pic.twitter.com/o5QsimuXJp
- Nottingham Forest (@NFFC) November 6, 2025
Despite the draw, Forest achieved their second clean sheet in 24 matches across all competitions under Dyche's leadership, both occurring in the Europa League. Dyche joined Alan Pardew, Gary Neville, and Graham Potter as English managers who kept clean sheets in their first two Europa League games since detailed data collection began in 2009-10.
Forest's defensive record has improved significantly under Dyche, conceding only four shots on target and an xG of 0.67 in Europe. This contrasts sharply with the nine shots on target and 2.59 xG conceded during Ange Postecoglou's tenure.
Challenges Ahead for Nottingham Forest
Looking ahead, Forest will face Leeds United next in a crucial Premier League match that could impact relegation standings. Dyche mentioned challenges with player selection due to limited options from the bench. "We've had players playing who ideally you wouldn't just throw into a game like this," he explained.
Kali Arnaud Kalimuendo was one such player thrust into action without adequate preparation time. Dyche expressed a desire for more substitutions earlier in the game to better manage player fatigue and strategy.
The match against Sturm Graz highlighted both strengths and areas needing improvement for Nottingham Forest under Sean Dyche's management. While defensive solidity has been achieved, converting chances remains crucial for future success.
