Nottingham Forest made a huge statement in the UEFA Europa League (UEL) knockout phase play-offs after a dominant 3-0 first-leg victory over Fenerbahçe in Istanbul, giving new manager Vítor Pereira a dream start against his former club. The emphatic result puts Forest firmly in control of the tie and on the brink of reaching the Round of 16.
For Kenyan football fans who follow European competitions closely, this performance showed that Forest are serious contenders in this season’s Europa League.
Murillo’s Moment of Magic Sets the Tone
One of the biggest talking points before kick-off was the return of Brazilian defender Murillo, who had missed Forest’s previous two matches due to injury. However, the centre-back didn’t just return—he stole the spotlight.
Midway through the first half, Murillo produced a sensational solo run from midfield before firing a low, precise shot into the bottom corner. It was his first European goal, and it gave Forest a deserved lead.
The goal stunned the home crowd and gave Forest confidence to push forward even more aggressively.
Igor Jesus Doubles the Lead Before Half-Time
Forest continued to dominate possession and looked dangerous from set-pieces. Their pressure paid off just before the break.
Morgan Gibbs-White delivered a dangerous corner, flicked on at the near post, and Igor Jesus was perfectly positioned to head home from close range.
The goal made it 2-0 and marked Jesus’ seventh Europa League goal of the season, highlighting his importance to Forest’s European campaign.
At half-time, Forest were in complete control, while Fenerbahçe faced a massive uphill battle.
Gibbs-White Seals a Perfect Night for Forest
Fenerbahçe tried to respond after the break, forcing goalkeeper Stefan Ortega into action early in the second half. However, any hopes of a comeback were quickly crushed.
Forest launched a swift counter-attack, and after excellent teamwork involving Omari Hutchinson and Igor Jesus, Morgan Gibbs-White calmly finished to make it 3-0.
The goal effectively ended the contest and silenced the Istanbul crowd.
Forest Defence and Goalkeeper Hold Firm
Forest could have scored even more goals late in the game, but Fenerbahçe goalkeeper Ederson made key saves to deny Callum Hudson-Odoi and Neco Williams.
Defensively, Forest remained solid and disciplined, leaving Turkey with a clean sheet and a commanding advantage.
What This Means Ahead of the Second Leg
This victory ended Forest’s three-game winless run and gave them a huge advantage ahead of the second leg at the City Ground.
Key takeaways:
- Forest are now favourites to qualify for the Round of 16
- Vítor Pereira has made an immediate impact.
- Morgan Gibbs-White and Igor Jesus continue to shine.
- Forest looks dangerous both defensively and offensively
For Kenyan fans, Forest’s performance is a reminder of how quickly teams can transform under new leadership.
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Conclusion: Forest One Step Away from Europa League Round of 16
Nottingham Forest delivered a complete performance in Istanbul. Goals from Murillo, Igor Jesus, and Morgan Gibbs-White secured a massive 3-0 victory and put them firmly in control of the tie.
With confidence high and home advantage in the second leg, Forest are now just one step away from the Europa League Round of 16.
For Kenyan football fans, Forest’s rise under Vítor Pereira is one of the most exciting stories in European football this season.
