Dan Ndoye reveals the bizarre reason why he was emotional after final the whistle in Forest’s 3-0 win vs Malmo

Dan Ndoye Reveals the Bizarre Reason Why He Was Emotional After the Final Whistle in Forest’s 3-0 Win vs Malmö

Nottingham Forest produced a confident and composed European display as they defeated Malmö 3–0 at the City Ground. Goals from Ryan Yates, Arnaud Kalimuendo and Nikola Milenković sealed a comfortable victory, keeping Forest’s Europa League ambitions firmly on track.

But the biggest talking point of the night came after the final whistle, when substitute Dan Ndoye was spotted looking unexpectedly emotional.

Forest in control from start to finish

Sean Dyche’s side dominated large spells of the game. Yates broke the deadlock midway through the first half before Kalimuendo’s sharp finish doubled the lead. Milenković’s late header added polish to an already commanding performance.

Ndoye only entered the match in the 66th minute, replacing Nicolás Domínguez. Despite limited time on the pitch, he made a noticeable impact with his energy, direct running and fresh legs on the right flank.

Ndoye explains his surprising emotional reaction

Speaking after the match, Ndoye revealed the unusual reason behind his emotions — one that left reporters and fans equally amused.

“I know it probably looked strange,” Ndoye said, “but when the whistle went, something really personal hit me. Growing up, I always loved the name ‘Malmö’. Not the team — just the name. I used to say it over and over as a kid because it sounded cool to me.”

“So coming on, playing against them, and being part of a 3–0 win… it brought back all these funny childhood memories. It felt surreal for a moment.”

“It’s a small thing, but it meant something to me,” he added with a smile. “Football can connect you to your past in the weirdest ways.”

A moment that charmed Forest supporters

Ndoye’s candid explanation immediately warmed him to Forest fans, who praised both his honesty and the quirky childhood story behind the emotion. Many supporters enjoyed seeing a more personal, light-hearted side to the Swiss winger.

What the result means

The victory strengthens Forest’s position in the group and injects further confidence into the squad. While Ndoye only featured for the final 24 minutes, the match will undoubtedly remain memorable for him — not only for his contribution, but for the unexpected fulfilment of a childhood fascination.