Nottingham Forest concluded their Europa League league-phase campaign with a resounding 4-0 victory over Ferencvaros, managed by Robbie Keane, at the City Ground on Thursday. A brace from Igor Jesus, coupled with an own goal and a late penalty, secured a comfortable win for the home side.
The result, however, was not enough to propel Forest into the top eight and automatic qualification for the round of 16. They will now face a play-off tie next month against either Panathinaikos or Fenerbahce to continue their European journey. Despite the need for a play-off, the victory provided a significant confidence boost for Sean Dyche's team.
Forest started strongly, dictating the tempo from the outset. An early scare saw Kristoffer Zachariassen's header strike the woodwork, but Ferencvaros were ultimately overwhelmed by the intensity of Forest's attacks. Ryan Yates proved instrumental in the first half, forcing turnovers in possession that led to the opening goals.
The first goal arrived in somewhat comical fashion as Bence Ötvös turned Yates' low cross into his own net under pressure. Shortly after, Igor Jesus doubled the lead with a deflected effort that found the corner of the net. James McAtee, who was handed a start, could have further extended the lead but was denied by a good save from Ferencvaros goalkeeper Dávid Gróf.
The second half saw Forest continue their dominance. Nicolás Domínguez hit the post with a header before Igor Jesus scored his second of the night with a well-taken volley. With the game secured, Dyche made substitutions, including replacing Igor Jesus, who missed the opportunity to score a hat-trick. James McAtee added a fourth from the penalty spot late on after a foul in the box, sealing a comprehensive victory for Nottingham Forest.
While Nottingham Forest finished the league phase in 13th position, their attention now turns to the Europa League play-off round. They will discover their fate on Friday and prepare for a two-legged tie to secure their place in the next stage of the competition. For Robbie Keane's Ferencvaros, the defeat marks the end of their Europa League campaign.
