International Club Friendly: Rio Ave Rout Nottingham Forest 5-2 in Preseason Thriller

July 23, 2026 – Rio Ave put on an attacking masterclass as they dismantled Premier League side Nottingham Forest 5-2 in an International Club Friendly held at the Estádio do Rio Ave FC. The Portuguese club showcased their firepower ahead of the new season, while Forest will have plenty to work on defensively after a heavy defeat.

Match Report: Fast Start Sets Tone

The home side exploded out of the blocks, scoring twice inside the first 15 minutes. A slick passing move opened up the Forest defence, with Rio Ave’s striker slotting home from close range. Moments later, a long-range strike doubled the lead, leaving Nottingham Forest stunned. The English side pulled one back before the half-hour mark through a well-taken header, but Rio Ave restored their two-goal cushion with a clinical finish just before half-time.

The second half followed a similar pattern. Rio Ave continued to press high and exploit gaps in the Forest backline, adding two more goals to make it 5-1. Nottingham Forest scored a consolation late on after a scramble from a corner, but the damage was already done.

Key Goals and Standout Performances

• 5’ – Rio Ave 1-0: Quick one-two on the edge of the box leads to a composed finish.
• 12’ – Rio Ave 2-0: A thunderous strike from 25 yards into the top corner.
• 28’ – Nottingham Forest 2-1: Header from a whipped cross gives Forest hope.
• 42’ – Rio Ave 3-1: Counter-attack finished with a low drive.
• 55’ – Rio Ave 4-1: Penalty converted after handball in the box.
• 70’ – Rio Ave 5-1: Tap-in from a cross following a defensive error.
• 82’ – Nottingham Forest 5-2: Scramble from a corner results in a deflected shot.

Preseason Implications

For Rio Ave, this resounding win builds momentum ahead of their domestic campaign. Their fluid attacking play and high-intensity pressing impressed the coaching staff. For Nottingham Forest, the match highlighted defensive frailties that need addressing before the Premier League season begins. The scoreline, while not a true reflection of the gap between the sides, serves as a valuable wake-up call in preseason.

Both teams will continue their friendly schedules, with Forest expected to seek sterner tests, while Rio Ave aim to carry this confidence into their league opener.