Forest Survive Fenerbahce Scare to Reach Europa League Last 16
Nottingham Forest booked their place in the Europa League last 16 despite a nervy 2-1 defeat to Fenerbahce at the City Ground on Thursday, winning the tie 4-2 on aggregate. A comfortable 3-0 first-leg victory in Istanbul had given Forest a significant advantage, but the Turkish side proved a tough opponent on home soil.
Early Fireworks and First-Half Frustration
The match was briefly halted early on as Fenerbahce fans threw fireworks onto the pitch, forcing players to dodge the pyrotechnics. Kerem Akturkoglu opened the scoring for Fenerbahce in the 22nd minute, giving the visitors a lifeline and injecting confidence into their performance. Akturkoglu and Sidiki Cherif both had chances to level the aggregate score before halftime, but Forest managed to hold on.
Pereira’s Half-Time Gamble Pays Off
Recognizing the need for a change, Nottingham Forest manager Vitor Pereira made four substitutions at halftime, bringing on Callum Hudson-Odoi, Igor Jesus, Ola Aina, and Ibrahim Sangare. This tactical shift proved crucial, as Forest regained control of the match.
Penalty and Response
However, Fenerbahce were awarded a penalty seconds into the second half after a clumsy challenge in the box. Akturkoglu converted the spot-kick, bringing the Turkish side within one goal of leveling the tie. Forest responded quickly, with Hudson-Odoi scoring his first European goal of the season after a well-worked move involving Aina. The goal sparked relief around the City Ground and deflated Fenerbahce’s momentum.
Pereira on the Match and Future Challenges
Vitor Pereira acknowledged the risk of rotating the squad, stating, “When you change half of a team, it’s not easy to keep the level.” He emphasized the importance of managing player fatigue with an eye towards the upcoming Premier League match against Brighton. Pereira also highlighted the need to learn from the match, noting the challenges of integrating players who aren’t regular starters.
Hudson-Odoi Reflects on a Hard-Fought Victory
Goalscorer Callum Hudson-Odoi admitted Forest made the game tough for themselves but praised the team’s reaction after Fenerbahce’s second goal. He emphasized the importance of maintaining possession and playing to their strengths, even under pressure.
Forest’s Road to the Last 16
Nottingham Forest have reached the Europa League last 16 stage, but this was their first home defeat in a major European competition this season. Fenerbahce secured only their second European away win in England since 1996.
What’s Next for Nottingham Forest?
Nottingham Forest will learn their Round of 16 opponents in Friday’s draw, with Real Betis or FC Midtjylland potential challengers. The Round of 16 matches are scheduled for March 12th and 19th, 2026.
FAQ
- What was the aggregate score of the tie? Nottingham Forest won 4-2 on aggregate.
- Who scored for Fenerbahce in the second leg? Kerem Akturkoglu scored both goals for Fenerbahce.
- Who scored for Nottingham Forest in the second leg? Callum Hudson-Odoi scored for Nottingham Forest.
- When is the draw for the last 16? The draw is on February 27th, 2026, at 12pm.
Check out Nottingham Forest’s upcoming fixtures here.
