I was not told Nottingham Forest had Ronaldo playing for them. He was unstoppable, we couldn’t do anything about it

Dyche and Mravac Heap Praise on “Outstanding” Callum Hudson-Odoi After Malmö Win

Nottingham Forest manager Sean Dyche and Malmö FF head coach Anes Mravac both singled out Callum Hudson-Odoi for extraordinary praise following Forest’s 3-1 victory in the UEFA Europa League round of 16 first leg at the City Ground.

The 24-year-old winger delivered a masterful performance, scoring once, providing two assists and constantly terrorising the Malmö defence with his pace and directness. His 28th-minute curling effort into the top corner opened the scoring, before he set up Anthony Elanga and Chris Wood with pinpoint crosses in a dominant second half.

Speaking in the post-match press conference, Dyche could barely contain his admiration.

“Callum was different class tonight – absolutely different class,” Dyche said. “We’ve seen the talent for years, but what we’re seeing now is maturity, decision-making, end product. He’s frightening defenders every time he gets the ball. That’s the level we know he can hit consistently. I’m delighted for him and for us.”

Malmö boss Anes Mravac, in his first season in charge of the Swedish champions, was equally effusive despite seeing his side comprehensively outplayed.

“I have to be honest – Hudson-Odoi was unplayable tonight,” the Bosnian coach admitted. “We prepared for him, we spoke about his speed and quality, but when a player is in this kind of form, there is very little you can do. His goal was world-class and his two assists were perfect. He is Premier League quality on a European night and he showed exactly why Nottingham wanted him back in England. Full respect – he decided the game.”

Hudson-Odoi, who rejoined Forest permanently in the summer of 2024 after a successful loan spell, has now contributed eight goals and nine assists in all competitions this season. His display against Malmö has further cemented his status as one of the most exciting wide players in European football.

With a two-goal cushion and Hudson-Odoi in this kind of form, Nottingham Forest will travel to Sweden for the second leg as strong favourites to reach the Europa League quarter-finals.