FC Porto will host Nottingham Forest in the UEFA Europa League quarter-final on Thursday, with both sides aiming to reach a European semi-final for the first time in over a decade.
The fixture also brings a Nigerian angle into focus, as Zaidu Sanusi, Ola Aina and Terem Moffi are expected to feature for their respective clubs.
Sanusi has been part of Porto’s defensive setup in the Europa League this season, making several appearances as the Portuguese side progressed to the last eight. The left-back has made six appearances in the competition, without scoring but creating just one assist, contributing mainly in defensive duties and build-up play.
Aina, on the other hand, has also played a consistent role for Nottingham Forest in the competition. The defender has made six Europa League appearances this season and is yet to score and recording one assist, focusing on defensive responsibilities.
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Terem Moffi has also featured in European competition, bringing a more attacking profile compared to the defensive roles of his compatriots. The forward has made two appearances in the Europa League this season, scoring one goal and contributing with his presence in the final third.
This will not be the first time both clubs meet in this season’s competition. Nottingham Forest recorded a 2-0 win over Porto during the league phase in October, marking their first-ever meeting in European competition.
Porto head into the tie on a six-match unbeaten run in all competitions, although they were held to a 2-2 draw by Famalicão in their most recent outing, conceding a late equaliser.
Nottingham Forest, meanwhile, come into the match with momentum after securing back-to-back wins, including a 3-0 victory over Tottenham and progression to the quarter-finals following their win over Midtjylland.
Despite their recent form, Porto have struggled historically at this stage, losing their last four European quarter-final ties. Forest, in contrast, have a relatively strong record in such fixtures, winning three of their last four.
With both teams pushing for a place in the semi-finals, the tie is expected to be closely contested. Porto will look to take advantage of their home form, having scored at least two goals in six of their last eight home matches.
Forest will rely on their recent attacking efficiency and solid defensive structure as they aim to secure a positive result away from home.
The first leg is scheduled to take place in Porto, with the return leg to be played in England.
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