Nottingham Forest secured a dramatic 2-1 Europa League victory against Utrecht on Thursday, with substitute Igor Jesus becoming the unlikely hero just 82 seconds after entering the pitch.
The Brazilian forward pounced on a rebound from Dan Ndoye's headed attempt in the 88th minute, sealing Forest's third European win this season and keeping their automatic knockout qualification hopes alive.
Match Highlights
- 47': Arnaud Kalimuendo opens scoring after fortunate deflection
- 68': Mike van der Hoorn equalizes with powerful header
- 88': Jesus nets winner moments after substitution
Forest dominated early proceedings, registering eight attempts within the first 20 minutes. Their persistence paid dividends after halftime when Kalimuendo capitalized on a defensive error to slot home his second consecutive European goal.
The visitors appeared destined for victory until former Swansea defender Van der Hoorn exploited defensive lapses to head in the equalizer. Utrecht then gained momentum, threatening to complete an unexpected comeback before Jesus' late intervention.
"This result means everything - we showed character when it mattered most," Forest manager Sean Dyche told reporters post-match.
Historic Achievement
The victory marks Forest's first European away win since 1995, a significant milestone for the two-time European Cup winners. With 11 points from six matches, they now sit comfortably in contention for automatic knockout qualification.
Utrecht's winless European campaign concludes with just one point from six group stage matches.
Forest now turn their attention to Premier League action, hosting Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday as they aim to carry this European momentum into domestic competition.
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