In-depth Analysis
Porto are enjoying an impressive 2025/26 season, with the “Dragons” still aiming for a treble of trophies. Under the guidance of manager Francesco Farioli, the Portuguese side lead the Primeira Liga by 5 points over the second-placed team, even though Sporting Lisbon have a game in hand. In addition, Porto have secured their place in the Europa League quarter-finals and the semi-finals of the Portuguese Cup (Taça de Portugal).
Porto’s most recent defeat came in the first leg of the Taça de Portugal semi-final against Sporting Lisbon (0-1), but they have bounced back strongly with 4 wins and 2 draws in their last 6 matches. The team hopes to maintain this strong form when facing Nottingham in the Europa League quarter-final first leg, particularly on home soil – where they have only lost once this season and have won all 5 of their home Europa League matches so far.
Meanwhile, Nottingham Forest continue to defy expectations in their first European campaign in three decades. Their route to the quarter-finals has been even more dramatic than Porto’s, as Nottingham had to go through the play-off, beat Fenerbahce, and then survive extra time and a penalty shootout to overcome Midtjylland in the Round of 16. Nevertheless, Vitor Pereira’s side have shown remarkable resilience throughout the tournament.
Nottingham’s recent domestic form has also improved, highlighted by a convincing victory over Tottenham in their most recent league outing, boosting confidence ahead of their trip to the Dragao. Forest have been particularly impressive away from home in recent weeks, losing just 1 of their last 5 matches and only 1 away match in this season’s Europa League.