Nottingham Forest manager Vitor Pereira's decision to make six changes for their Europa League match against Fenerbahce almost backfired. Despite a 3-0 first-leg lead, Fenerbahce's Kerem Akturkoglu scored twice, bringing them within one goal of leveling the aggregate score.
Callum Hudson-Odoi's 68th-minute goal secured a 4-2 aggregate victory for Forest, advancing them to the round of 16. Pereira, concerned about their Premier League position just two points above the relegation zone, stated the risk was taken with Sunday's crucial match against Brighton & Hove Albion in mind.
"My decisions were not just about this game," Pereira explained, emphasizing the need for energy for upcoming league fixtures. Forest, currently 17th in the Premier League, will face either FC Midtjylland or Real Betis in the next Europa League stage, while also prioritizing securing points to avoid a difficult end to their domestic season.