Vítor Pereira wins first Forest match 3-0 in record away European victory

Vítor Pereira wins big in first Forest match

Vítor Pereira’s tenure at Nottingham Forest began with a commanding 3-0 victory away at Fenerbahce in the Europa League knockout round play-off first leg. The win marks Forest's biggest ever away win in European competition.

Pereira has now won his first game in charge at a new club in 15 consecutive attempts across his career. Goals from Murillo, Igor Jesus, and captain Morgan Gibbs-White secured the dominant result.

Pereira asked players to express themselves

The new manager said he asked his squad to play with freedom and confidence. "I realised before I came that the players have a lot of quality," Pereira told TNT Sports after the match.

"They need results but they need to enjoy the game. I asked them to express themselves on the pitch. They did it." He added that the team could have scored even more goals in what he called a "very good result."

Forest establish identity under new boss

Captain Morgan Gibbs-White said the team immediately bought into Pereira's philosophy. The win comes after a turbulent season where Pereira is Forest's fourth manager.

"I felt we had a real identity out there," Gibbs-White said. "His message to us is that we will have a real identity how we play and defend as a team. We have all bought into what he wants straight away."

The midfielder emphasized that the victory was a crucial confidence boost for a squad sitting just three points above the Premier League relegation zone.

European run could boost survival fight

While Premier League survival is the primary objective, progressing in Europe could provide vital momentum. Forest are now strong favorites to reach the last 16.

The second leg will be played at the City Ground on Thursday, 22 February. The winner will face either Midtjylland or Real Betis in the next round.

Key factors for Pereira's successful debut included:

• A disciplined defensive performance and a clean sheet
• Creating a high volume of scoring chances
• Immediate player buy-in to his tactical demands

A tight schedule ahead

Pereira was quick to note that the tie is only at halftime. He must now manage a congested fixture list as Forest fight on two fronts.

"The schedule is tight and difficult. Everyone must be ready to help the team. This is what I ask them," Pereira said. The immediate challenge is translating European form to their crucial domestic campaign.