Nottingham Forest are through to the Europa League last 16, overcoming a spirited Fenerbahce side in a tie that ended 4-2 on aggregate. Despite losing the second leg 2-1 at the City Ground, Forest’s dominant 3-0 victory in the first leg proved decisive.

Fenerbahce Mounts a Fierce Comeback

Fenerbahce threatened to pull off a remarkable comeback, taking a 2-0 lead in the second leg thanks to a brace from Kerem Aktürkoglu. The Turkish side’s early pressure caught Forest off guard, with Aktürkoglu scoring in the 22nd minute after a breakaway.

“Forest were caught out with a high line and Sidiki Cherif broke down the right and picked out his pass to Akturkoglu, who composed himself and slammed home.”

ESPN

Aktürkoglu doubled Fenerbahce’s advantage shortly after halftime, converting a penalty after being fouled.

Hudson-Odoi Secures Forest’s Advancement

However, Callum Hudson-Odoi’s goal in the 68th minute ultimately sealed the tie for Nottingham Forest. The goal restored a two-goal aggregate cushion and extinguished Fenerbahce’s hopes of a dramatic turnaround.

“Callum Hudson-Odoi wrapped up the game for Forest.”

Mike Egerton/PA Images via Getty Images

Match Disrupted by Crowd Trouble

The match experienced a chaotic start, with play being halted for over three minutes due to fireworks being thrown onto the pitch by sections of the 1,500-strong Fenerbahce support.

Looking Ahead

Nottingham Forest will now face either Real Betis or FC Midtjylland in the last 16. Manager Vitor Pereira made six changes to the starting lineup from the weekend’s match against Liverpool, citing the importance of preserving energy for upcoming Premier League fixtures.

“We move forward – I’m happy, we played under pressure. It was like a thriller – with suspense,”

Vitor Pereira

FAQ

• What was the aggregate score? Nottingham Forest won 4-2 on aggregate.
• Who scored for Nottingham Forest? Callum Hudson-Odoi scored in the second leg.
• Who scored for Fenerbahce? Kerem Aktürkoglu scored both goals for Fenerbahce.
• Who will Nottingham Forest play in the next round? They will face either Real Betis or FC Midtjylland.