Vítor Pereira enjoyed a flawless start to his Nottingham Forest tenure with a stylish 3-0 victory over Fenerbahce. The Portuguese head coach watched his new side dominate the first leg of their Europa League play-off on Thursday. Consequently, Forest have recorded their largest-ever away win in European competition at the Chobani Stadyumu.
Pereira’s Reds Secure Historic Triumph in Istanbul
The visitors displayed immediate confidence despite the hostile atmosphere typically found in Turkish stadiums. Returning defender Murillo broke the deadlock in the 21st minute with a spectacular individual effort. The Brazilian drove forward from the halfway line before unleashing a low, 20-yard drive into the bottom corner. This strike silenced the home crowd and set the tone for a night of complete English dominance.
Fenerbahce struggled to handle the visitors’ intensity and frequently surrendered possession in dangerous areas. They appealed for a penalty when a Talisca effort struck Murillo’s arm, but VAR dismissed the claims. Forest capitalised on this reprieve and doubled their advantage just before the half-time interval. Igor Jesus rose highest to flick home a near-post header following a clever Morgan Gibbs-White delivery.
Jesus Breaks Records as Forest Eye Last 16
The second half began with the same attacking intent that defined Pereira’s impressive managerial debut. Morgan Gibbs-White turned from provider to goalscorer just five minutes after the restart. He tapped home from close range after Igor Jesus unselfishly squared the ball across the face of goal. This third strike effectively killed the contest and perhaps the entire tie for the Turkish giants.
Crucially, the goal for Jesus saw him surpass Garry Birtles’ long-standing club record for European goals. The Brazilian has now netted seven times in this continental campaign, eclipsing the mark set in 1979. Meanwhile, Pereira used the comfortable lead to rest key personnel ahead of a daunting Premier League schedule. The manager’s tactical shift provided a stark contrast to the conservative approach often seen under Sean Dyche.
Forest now head into the second leg at the City Ground as overwhelming favourites to progress. The winners will face either Real Betis or Midtjylland in the round of 16 next month. For now, Pereira will focus on translating this European flair into domestic survival. His side faces a stern test against Liverpool this Sunday as they return to top-flight action.
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