Igor Jesus Scores a Brace as The Reds Conclude Europa League Group Stage with Victory over Ferencvaros

The Brazilian attacker scored twice as the Premier League side rounded off the group stage of the European competition with a comfortable triumph against Ferencvaros at the City Ground.

The hosts had already secured a place in the knockout round play-offs and went into this game with a slim possibility of reaching the top eight, even though they required other matches to fall in their favor.

That did not happen but this confident display will give Forest fans confidence that their side can navigate the two-legged play-off to advance to the last 16.

Kristoffer Zachariassen did hit the post with a headed effort inside the opening stages for the visitors – who are managed by ex-Premier League forward Robbie Keane – but it was dominantly the home side from that point forward.

They broke the deadlock in the 17th minute when Ryan Yates' cross was turned into his own net by Bence Otvos and doubled the lead four minutes later – Jesus squeezing a shot in at the far post for his tenth strike of the campaign.

The forward's eleventh goal arrived early in the second half when he timed a run perfectly to escape the backline and then drive an effort beyond the goalkeeper.

The third strike ended the visitors' aspirations of making a comeback and instead the hosts added a fourth when the excellent McAtee converted a penalty after a foul by the unfortunate Bence Otvos inside the box on the winger.

The Europa League qualifying round lottery takes place on Friday, 30 January (12:00 GMT), where Forest might face either the Turkish side or the Greek club.

"It is not just the scoreline, there was that atmosphere about it. I want these guys to do well as a unit, the entire team," said manager Sean Dyche.

"This is another stride forward, but it is a good one."

Team Breakdown: Striker Shines as New Signing Observes from Stands

Jesus has been a revelation for Nottingham Forest in Europe this term with half of his 11 goals scored in the tournament.

This double also means he has scored a trio of strikes in his last two games and the threat of competition for his position in the forward line could be providing motivation.

Napoli striker Lorenzo Lucca was last week signed on loan and he was observing this match from the directors' box.

This development may well have been on the striker's thoughts as he was outstanding against the opposition, producing two excellent goals and overall being a menace to the visitors' defence with his speed and runs.

Jesus was not alone in impressing, with James McAtee producing his finest display in a Forest jersey since signing from the champions in the previous transfer window, while the Swiss international also performed well.

These encouraging performances will give the club some renewed optimism as they turn their attention to increasing the gap from the bottom three when they host their London rivals on the weekend.

"All you can ask for is a response," added Dyche.

"I have always trusted their work ethic or their dedication or integrity. It is just about displaying your ability.

"James was excellent and Dan Ndoye was incredibly lively. Igor got another couple and these are good signs."

Player of the Match

Forest Key Performers

• #19: Average Rating 9.1
• J. McAtee: Average Rating 8.8
• #22: Rating 8.6
• #6: Rating 8.01
• #31: Average Rating 7.94

Ferencváros Notable Players

• B. Yusuf: Average Rating 4.1
• #66: Average Rating 4.12
• K. Zachariassen: Rating 4.09