**Nottingham Forest head into the international break on a high after a commanding 3-0 win over Tottenham Hotspur**, a result that could prove decisive in their fight against relegation.
Vítor Pereira’s side delivered one of their most complete performances of the season. They showed defensive control, intensity out of possession and clinical finishing. As a result, confidence has grown at a crucial stage of the campaign.
However, the focus will soon shift. Once the break ends, Nottingham Forest return not to another Premier League fixture, but to a Europa League quarter-final against FC Porto. The first leg will be played at the City Ground on April 9th.
That tie carries extra weight for Pereira. The Forest manager has a long history with Porto, where he previously coached and won a league double in 2011/12 and 2012/13. Therefore, the emotional angle is obvious, and it quickly became a topic after the Tottenham victory.
Vítor Pereira responds to Porto reunion
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Speaking after the match to [**DAZN Portugal**](https://x.com/DAZNPortugal/status/2035793248099164178?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E2035793248099164178%7Ctwgr%5E044bd0f750880af782a1a4dc6875430e7f33180f%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ojogo.pt%2Ffutebol%2Fartigo%2Fvitor-pereira-comenta-regresso-a-casa-do-fc-porto-com-as-cores-do-nottingham-forest%2F18065039), Vítor Pereira was asked about facing his former club and returning to familiar surroundings.
_“Of course, as a professional, I have great gratitude for that club. That cannot be questioned,”_ he said.
The Portuguese coach made it clear that his connection to Porto remains strong. Still, he immediately drew a line between personal feelings and professional duty.
_“But now I will defend my club in the best possible way,”_ the Nottingham Forest manager added.
He did not expand much beyond that. Instead, his focus stayed on the challenge ahead.
_“So we will try to play two good games, knowing that we will compete against a great team,”_ he continued.
Big moment after key win
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The timing of this European tie is significant. Nottingham Forest go into it on the back of a result that may shape their domestic season.
At the same time, the Porto clash offers a different kind of test. It demands tactical discipline across two legs and the ability to manage momentum over 180 minutes.
Vítor Pereira’s words suggest a clear mindset. There is respect for Porto and recognition of their quality. Yet the priority is firmly on Nottingham Forest. That balance could be key.
Forest now return from the international break with renewed belief, a major European challenge ahead, and a manager who knows exactly what facing Porto involves.