Nottingham Forest made a decisive move towards the Europa League last 16, securing a commanding 3-0 victory against Fenerbahce in Istanbul today.
Under the guidance of Vitor Pereira, the team delivered an impressive performance that caught the Turkish side off guard, successfully dampening the typically fierce atmosphere of the stadium.
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Despite the intimidating surroundings, Forest refused to adopt a defensive stance. Their first breakthrough came midway through the first half from an unexpected player.
Centre-back Murillo picked up the ball in his own half, surged forward unopposed, and let loose a low left-footed shot from distance that found the bottom corner of the net.
This goal shifted the momentum decidedly in favor of Forest and revealed Fenerbahce’s weaknesses during transitions.
Continuing their pressure, the visitors extended their lead just before halftime from a set-piece situation.
Morgan Gibbs-White flicked on a corner taken from the near post, and Igor Jesus leaped to head it home from close range at the back post.
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This second goal was a testament to Forest’s dominance in the first half, where they controlled possession and limited their opponents to only a few half-chances.
Fenerbahce posed a brief threat early in the second half, but any hopes for a comeback were dashed within five minutes.
Omari Hutchinson delivered a pass to Igor Jesus, who unselfishly set up Gibbs-White for a simple finish, making it 3-0.
The third goal sapped the home side’s confidence and led to visible frustration in the stands.
Remaining organized and disciplined, Forest managed the pace of the game while still posing a threat on the break.
Late in the match, Ederson was called upon to keep the scoreline from worsening, making key saves against Callum Hudson-Odoi and Neco Williams as Forest sought to add a fourth goal.
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Pereira took the opportunity to rotate his squad in the final moments, resting pivotal players with future domestic fixtures in mind.
This victory marks Forest’s largest away win in European competition and ends their recent winless streak in style.
Fenerbahce, who had been unbeaten at home in Europe this season, were thoroughly outplayed in crucial areas and now face a challenging task in the return leg.
With a three-goal advantage and home support next week, Forest is firmly in command of the matchup.