Nottingham Forest signed off their pre-season preparations in style with a 2-0 victory over Stade Brestois 29 in an international club friendly on 16 August 2026. Playing in front of their home supporters, Forest produced a polished all-round display, scoring once in each half and keeping a clean sheet against a Brest side that offered plenty of possession but limited penetration.

Forest Control the Friendly Workout

With both teams using the fixture to build fitness and sharpen their tactical work, the match began at a steady tempo. Nottingham Forest made a positive start, pressing high and moving the ball quickly through midfield. The Premier League side’s sharper intensity earned them the lead before half-time as a well-worked attacking move was finished with composure, giving the hosts a deserved advantage heading into the break.

Stade Brestois 29 responded after the interval with more intent, enjoying longer spells of possession and looking to test the Forest backline. The French side, preparing for another demanding Ligue 1 season, moved the ball well between the lines but found Forest’s defenders in strong form. Key interceptions and disciplined positioning ensured the clean sheet remained intact.

Second Goal Seals the Win

Forest made a number of changes as the second half progressed, giving valuable minutes to squad players during the pre-season period. The refreshed attacking unit continued to threaten on the counter-attack, and it was from one such break that the hosts scored their second. A quick exchange on the edge of the penalty area created the opening, and the finish gave the Brest goalkeeper no chance.

The remaining minutes were managed professionally by Nottingham Forest, who slowed the tempo and denied Brest a route back into the game. The final whistle confirmed a useful 2-0 win, the kind of result that leaves both coaches with plenty of positive takeaways as the regular season approaches.

Key Takeaways from the Friendly

• Result: Nottingham Forest 2-0 Stade Brestois 29
• Competition: International Club Friendly
• Clean sheet: Forest’s defensive unit looked solid throughout
• Momentum: The win provides a confidence boost before competitive action resumes

For Nottingham Forest, this friendly win will mean little in terms of league points, but it offered useful insights into squad depth, fitness levels, and tactical flexibility. For Stade Brestois 29, the match served as a demanding test against high-quality opposition, with their focus now turning to refinement as they prepare for the challenges of the upcoming campaign.