For Nottingham Forest, the 2025/26 UEFA Europa League marks a return to European competition that fans have long dreamt of. After years away from the continental spotlight, Forest is back and ready to take on some of Europe’s most competitive clubs.
With exciting fixtures ahead, loyal supporters can finally witness their team on Thursday nights under the lights.
This blog outlines Nottingham Forest’s full Europa League fixture list, squad details, and what fans can expect from the campaign.
What Are Nottingham Forest’s Fixtures In The 2025/26 UEFA Europa League?
For Nottingham Forest fans, the return to European football is not just exciting, it’s historic. After decades away from the continental stage, the 2025/26 UEFA Europa League campaign presents a golden opportunity for the club to re-establish itself among Europe’s elite.
Here’s the full list of confirmed Nottingham Forest Europa League fixtures, all in UK time:
| Matchday | Fixture | Date | Kick-off Time (UK) | Venue |
| Matchday 1 | Real Betis v Nottingham Forest | Wednesday, 24 Sept 2025 | 8:00 PM | Estadio Benito Villamarín |
| Matchday 2 | Nottingham Forest v FC Midtjylland | Thursday, 2 Oct 2025 | 8:00 PM | The City Ground |
| Matchday 3 | Nottingham Forest v FC Porto | Thursday, 23 Oct 2025 | 8:00 PM | The City Ground |
| Matchday 4 | SK Sturm Graz v Nottingham Forest | Thursday, 6 Nov 2025 | 5:45 PM | Merkur Arena |
| Matchday 5 | Nottingham Forest v Malmö FF | Thursday, 27 Nov 2025 | 8:00 PM | The City Ground |
| Matchday 6 | FC Utrecht v Nottingham Forest | Thursday, 11 Dec 2025 | 5:45 PM | Stadion Galgenwaard |
| Matchday 7 | SC Braga v Nottingham Forest | Thursday, 22 Jan 2026 | 8:00 PM | Estádio Municipal de Braga |
| Matchday 8 | Nottingham Forest v Ferencvárosi TC | Thursday, 29 Jan 2026 | 8:00 PM | The City Ground |
Fans are already circling these dates in their calendars. With four crucial home fixtures at The City Ground, Forest will look to take maximum points in front of their loyal supporters.
How Has Nottingham Forest Performed So Far In The Europa League?
Nottingham Forest opened their campaign with a spirited 2–2 away draw against Real Betis on 24 September 2025.
The result showcased attacking promise, particularly through Brazilian striker Igor Jesus, who netted both goals, but also highlighted defensive vulnerabilities. The team showed resilience, coming from behind and securing a valuable point in Spain.
With this result, Forest currently sit mid-table in the early league standings, tied on points with Real Betis.
What Does The UEFA Europa League Table Look Like For Nottingham Forest?
The Europa League group phase now follows a league-format, where all teams play eight matches against different opponents. Here’s the current state of the table relevant to Forest:
| Position | Team | Played | Won | Drawn | Lost | Goals For | Goals Against | GD | Points |
| 7 | Nottingham Forest | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 1 |
| 8 | Real Betis | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 1 |
Forest’s goal difference is neutral, and they’re behind only due to alphabetical ranking. Upcoming home fixtures are critical if Forest hopes to finish in the top 8 and secure a place in the knockout rounds.
Who Are Nottingham Forest’s Key Opponents In The League Phase?
Nottingham Forest face several seasoned European sides in this campaign:
- FC Porto – A Portuguese giant with deep Europa League experience.
- SC Braga – Tactical and dangerous, particularly at home.
- Real Betis – Already faced; technical and hard to break down.
- Malmö FF – Swedish champions known for disciplined defence.
- FC Midtjylland – Danish side famous for set-piece strategies.
- FC Utrecht – A technically sound Dutch side with energetic midfielders.
- Ferencvárosi TC – Hungarian champions with passionate support.
- SK Sturm Graz – Physical Austrian team, strong at home.
Each of these fixtures offers a different tactical test for Ange Postecoglou’s men.
When And Where Will Nottingham Forest Play Their Home Matches?
Forest’s home fixtures in the Europa League will take place at The City Ground in Nottingham, a historic stadium with a capacity of over 30,000. The ground is expected to sell out for each European night, adding to the already electric atmosphere.
Home fixtures:
- vs FC Midtjylland (2 Oct)
- vs FC Porto (23 Oct)
- vs Malmö FF (27 Nov)
- vs Ferencváros (29 Jan)
These home matches could define Forest’s European journey.
How Strong Is Nottingham Forest’s Squad For The Europa League?
Forest has a well-balanced squad featuring youth and experience. The standout so far is Igor Jesus, who scored twice in the opening fixture.
Key Players
- Goalkeeper: Matz Sels (Belgium) – Experienced and composed under pressure
- Defenders: Morato, Neco Williams, Oleksandr Zinchenko – Provide defensive stability and width
- Midfielders: Douglas Luiz, Ibrahim Sangaré, Morgan Gibbs-White – Dynamic mix of creativity and control
- Forwards: Igor Jesus, Dan Ndoye, Callum Hudson-Odoi – Offer pace, flair, and finishing ability
The squad depth includes promising youngsters like Elliot Anderson and Nicolás Domínguez, ensuring healthy competition across positions.
Can Nottingham Forest Progress To The Knockout Stages?
Progression is possible but will require consistency. The top 8 teams in the league phase advance directly to the Round of 16, while places 9 to 24 enter a play-off round.
Forest’s key objectives:
- Win home games
- Pick up at least 2–3 points from away matches
- Maintain a positive goal difference
If Forest capitalises on home advantage and avoids defeat in tight away games, qualification is within reach.
What Are The Key Stats From Nottingham Forest’s Europa League Campaign?
Here are some performance stats from the opening match:
- Goals Scored: 2 (Igor Jesus x2)
- Goals Conceded: 2
- Possession: 45%
- Passing Accuracy: 86%
- Balls Recovered: 30
- Distance Covered: 106.73 km
- Clean Sheets: 0
- Yellow Cards: 2
- Red Cards: 0
These figures reflect a balanced game but highlight defensive areas needing improvement.
What Is The Full Nottingham Forest Squad For The 2025/26 Europa League?
Here’s a breakdown of Forest’s squad by position:
Goalkeepers
- Matz Sels (BEL)
- John Victor (BRA)
- Aaron Bott, Keehan Willows, Zac Smith (ENG – Youth)
Defenders
- Morato (BRA), Neco Williams (WAL), Murillo (BRA)
- Nikola Milenković (SRB), Willy Boly (CIV), Zinchenko (UKR)
Midfielders
- Douglas Luiz (BRA), Ibrahim Sangaré (CIV), Gibbs-White (ENG)
- Ryan Yates, Elliot Anderson (ENG), Nicolás Domínguez (ARG)
Forwards
- Igor Jesus (BRA), Dan Ndoye (SUI), Hudson-Odoi (ENG)
- Chris Wood (NZL), Arnaud Kalimuendo (FRA)
Youth players have also been registered for squad rotation and development.
Where Can Fans Watch Nottingham Forest’s Europa League Fixtures?
All matches will be broadcast in the UK via TNT Sports (formerly BT Sport). Matches are also available for streaming through:
- Discovery+ Premium
- UEFA.tv (highlights and delayed replays)
- Nottingham Forest official site (for club commentary and recaps)
Check local listings for exact channel details and kickoff coverage.
Conclusion
As Nottingham Forest embarks on this European journey, the fixtures ahead promise both challenges and unforgettable moments.
The squad, under Ange Postecoglou’s guidance, is equipped with talent and ambition to leave a mark in the Europa League. From iconic away days to magical nights at The City Ground, every match will be crucial.
With belief, consistency, and fan support, Forest could turn this campaign into something truly special. European football is back in Nottingham, and it’s here to stay.
FAQs
How Many Matches Will Nottingham Forest Play In The League Phase?
Forest will play 8 matches in total, 4 home and 4 away, against different opponents across Europe.
What Happens If Forest Finish Outside The Top 8?
If Forest finish between 9th and 24th, they will enter a play-off round for a spot in the Round of 16.
Who Is Nottingham Forest’s Top Scorer In The Europa League So Far?
Igor Jesus currently leads with 2 goals scored in the opening match against Real Betis.
Which Is The Most Crucial Fixture For Nottingham Forest?
Matches against FC Porto and SC Braga could be decisive in Forest’s qualification hopes.
How Can I Get Tickets For Forest’s Home Games?
Tickets can be purchased through the official club website. Early booking is recommended due to high demand.
