Vitor Pereira’s Spectacular Start at Nottingham Forest

Nottingham Forest under Vitor Pereira kicked off his tenure in remarkable style, securing a 3-0 victory against Fenerbahce that propels them closer to the last 16 of the Europa League.

Pereira stepped in as Forest’s fourth manager amid a tumultuous season, and his debut could not have been more successful as the team seized a commanding lead in the first leg of the playoff round held in Istanbul.

Match Overview

Key goals from Murillo, Igor Jesus, and Morgan Gibbs-White made it a night to remember for Forest, marking an exciting new chapter post-Sean Dyche’s departure. This win sets the stage for a prospective clash against Real Betis or Midtjylland in the next round, provided they avoid a disaster in the return leg at their home ground.

Looking Ahead

Pereira’s primary objective is to maintain Forest’s position in the Premier League, and this thrilling performance will likely boost their morale heading into Sunday’s match against Liverpool.

Game Highlights

The Portuguese coach is familiar with the atmosphere of the Chobani Stadyumu, having previously managed the Turkish side. He guided his team to withstand early pressure effectively, seizing control of the match early on.

• 21st Minute: The visitors took the lead, silencing the home crowd. Elliot Anderson set up Murillo, who surged forward and struck a low shot from 20 yards into the bottom corner.

• Subsequent Chances: Shortly after, Igor Jesus nearly doubled the lead, but his attempt was blocked. Gibbs-White had a header saved, and Jesus missed a deflected free-kick opportunity.

• VAR intervention: Before halftime, Forest dodged a bullet as a VAR check ruled that a handball claim against Murillo was unwarranted.

• 43rd Minute: Forest extended their advantage. Gibbs-White deftly flicked on Anderson’s corner, allowing Jesus to score from close range, marking his sixth goal in the Europa League this season.

Fenerbahce sought to rally in the second half, coming close early on when Sidiki Cherif’s shot was expertly saved by goalkeeper Stefan Ortega.

• 50th Minute: Any hopes of a Fenerbahce comeback were extinguished when Forest netted their third goal. Jesus broke through the defense and set up Gibbs-White, who finished from 12 yards out.

Despite further attempts, including a missed chance from Nicolás Domínguez and a denial from Ederson on a shot by Neco Williams, Forest maintained their stellar performance, leaving a strong impression on their new manager.