Nottingham Forest delivered a dominant performance at Chobani Stadium, defeating Fenerbahçe 3-0 in their UEFA Europa League clash.
Goals from Murillo, Igor Jesus, and Morgan Gibbs-White secured a commanding away victory for the English side.
Fenerbahçe aimed to leverage home advantage in this crucial European fixture. Nottingham Forest sought to improve their group standing and build momentum on a tough away trip.
The match began with early intensity. Fenerbahçe’s M. Skriniar received a yellow card in the 9th minute. Murillo then drilled home the opening goal in the 21st minute for Forest, assisted by E. Anderson.
Fenerbahçe made an early tactical change, substituting Skriniar in the 26th minute, bringing on Çağlar Söyüncü. The home side struggled to contain Forest’s attack, and D. Tedesco was booked in the 41st minute.
Just moments later, Nottingham Forest doubled their lead. Igor Jesus found the net in the 43rd minute, guiding the ball past the goalkeeper after a clever assist from Morgan Gibbs-White.
Fenerbahçe faced a significant challenge at the break, trailing by two goals. The home side needed a swift response and greater attacking impetus to claw their way back. Forest, conversely, aimed to maintain their composure.
The second half started poorly for Fenerbahçe. Morgan Gibbs-White extended Forest’s lead to 3-0 in the 50th minute, slotting home a finish after being set up by Igor Jesus. Fenerbahçe made a double substitution at half-time, bringing on M. Muldur and K. Akturkoglu.
Further substitutions followed as both managers shuffled their packs. Forest introduced Omari Hutchinson and L. Lucca in the 61st minute, while Fenerbahçe brought on Talisca. J. Oosterwolde earned a yellow card in the 69th minute.
Forest continued to press and manage the game effectively. Çağlar Söyüncü was booked in the 78th minute for a trip. Fred also received a late yellow card in injury time.
Nottingham Forest demonstrated their clinical edge with an xG of 2.87 compared to Fenerbahçe’s 0.48. Forest registered 23 total shots (7 on target), while Fenerbahçe managed only 6 shots (2 on target).
This comprehensive 3-0 victory provides a crucial boost for Nottingham Forest’s Europa League campaign. Fenerbahçe now face an uphill battle in the competition.
