Nottingham Forest 1-1 Liverpool: Diogo Jota Sets Club Record with Historic Equaliser
Diogo Jota made Premier League history for Liverpool with his quick-fire equaliser in their 1-1 draw against Nottingham Forest at the City Ground. Substituted in the 66th minute, Jota scored just three seconds after the ball came into play, setting a new record for the fastest goal scored by a Liverpool substitute in Premier League history.
Jota's Impactful Header
Jota's deft header came from a Kostas Tsimikas cross, securing a vital point for Liverpool. The duo’s connection prevented Forest from narrowing the gap to three points, keeping Liverpool six points clear of their opponents.
The goal also highlighted the tactical prowess of Liverpool's manager, Arne Slot, as Jota and Tsimikas combined just moments after coming off the bench.
Where Jota Ranks in Premier League Records
While Jota’s goal was remarkably fast, it doesn’t claim the title of the quickest substitute goal in Premier League history. That honor belongs to Arsenal's Nicklas Bendtner, who scored just 1.8 seconds after coming on during a 2007 North London derby against Tottenham Hotspur.
In comparison, Jota’s goal took 22 seconds from the moment he entered the pitch, significantly longer than Bendtner’s six-second sprint from the touchline to the penalty box.
Notable Substitute Goals in Premier League History
- Nicklas Bendtner (Arsenal, 2007): Header in 1.8 seconds against Tottenham.
- Sammy Ameobi (Newcastle, 2014): Open-play goal in 8 seconds against Tottenham.
- Diogo Jota (Liverpool, 2025): Header in 3 seconds from play resumption against Nottingham Forest.
Jota’s record underscores his impact and efficiency, further solidifying his reputation as a key player for Liverpool in crucial moments. For Forest, the draw represented a missed opportunity, while for Liverpool, Jota’s heroics ensured their position in the league remains strong.