Nottingham Forest advanced to the Europa League last 16, but only after enduring a tense evening against Fenerbahce at the City Ground.
Holding a commanding 3-0 advantage from the first leg, Vitor Pereira’s team appeared in control of the tie. However, Kerem Akturkoglu’s two goals — including a penalty shortly after half-time — suddenly shifted the mood and threatened to undo their cushion.
The visitors struck first on 22 minutes when Forest were exposed on the counterattack, allowing Akturkoglu to find the net and spark anxiety inside the stadium. Elliot Anderson later dragged an effort wide, yet the home side struggled to regain composure before the interval.
Matters worsened just 25 seconds after the restart when Jair Cunha brought down Akturkoglu inside the area. The forward converted from the spot to intensify the pressure and raise doubts about Forest’s control of the contest.
Hudson-Odoi settles nerves as changes prove decisive
Pereira responded at the break with four substitutions, withdrawing James McAtee and Ryan Yates, among others. Despite rotating his squad with Sunday’s Premier League meeting at Brighton in mind, the Forest manager was ultimately forced to rely on key players to steady the situation.
Callum Hudson-Odoi, introduced at halftime, delivered the crucial moment 22 minutes from time. His low finish restored breathing space at 4-2 on aggregate and effectively ended fears of a dramatic collapse.
Omari Hutchinson nearly added another late on but was denied by Tarik Cetin when through on goal. Even so, Forest held firm to secure their first European knockout victory in three decades.
They will now face either FC Midtjylland — who defeated them in October — or Real Betis, with whom they shared a 2-2 draw in Spain during the league phase.
Pereira balances Europe with domestic fight
After the match, Pereira admitted the performance had been tense but praised his side for progressing under pressure. He explained that his selection decisions were influenced by the importance of the upcoming league fixture at Brighton.
The Forest head coach emphasised the need to manage energy levels, noting that his squad must focus not only on individual matches but also on the broader run-in. With his team just two points above the relegation zone and 11 league games remaining, the domestic campaign remains a major concern.
Forest’s Europa League ambitions continue, yet their precarious Premier League position adds further weight to every decision. Pereira, only two weeks into his tenure after replacing Sean Dyche, acknowledged that securing league points is essential to avoid deeper trouble.
Fenerbahce coach Domenico Tedesco, meanwhile, said his players could leave with pride despite elimination. He reflected on their first-leg defeat, stating that Forest had exceeded expectations in Turkey while his side fell short at home, but insisted his team bowed out with their heads held high.
