Strong start sets tone for convincing first-half lead
Nottingham Forest concluded their Europa League league phase campaign in style, securing a comprehensive 4-0 victory over Ferencváros at the City Ground. Goals from Igor Jesus (brace), an own goal, and James McAtee’s debut strike for the club handed the Reds a confident win.
The home side began brightly and came close early when Dan Ndoye skilfully entered the penalty area, only for the Ferencváros goalkeeper to make a crucial save. Forest broke the deadlock on 17 minutes thanks to Ryan Yates’ cross, which Bence Ötvös unfortunately turned into his own net.
Moments later the lead doubled. After regaining possession high up the pitch, the ball found Jesus, who calmly slotted it low past the keeper. McAtee then tested the visiting custodian with a fierce shot that was pushed away. At the interval Forest comfortably led 2-0.
Second-half control and clinical finishing
The Reds maintained their intensity after the restart. Yates had another powerful attempt repelled, while Nicolás Domínguez directed a header against the post from McAtee’s delivery.
Jesus soon added his second, drilling a precise finish into the bottom-left corner in front of the enthusiastic Trent End supporters. Ferencváros briefly threatened by hitting the crossbar, but Forest responded decisively late on.
Ndoye was brought down inside the box, earning a penalty that McAtee confidently converted for his first goal since joining the club. The final whistle confirmed a 4-0 scoreline that reflected Forest’s control throughout.
The three points lifted Forest to 13th in the Europa League standings. Their play-off opponent will be revealed following the draw on Friday.
