Forest's Striker Scores Twice as The Reds Conclude European Group Stage with Victory over Hungarian Opponents

The Brazilian attacker scored twice as the Premier League side concluded the league phase of the Europa League with a comfortable triumph against their Hungarian visitors at the City Ground.

The hosts had previously guaranteed a place in the knockout round play-offs and went into this game with a slim possibility of reaching the league's elite, even though they required several results to go their way.

That did not happen but this confident display will give Forest fans belief that their side can navigate the home-and-away tie to advance to the last 16.

Kristoffer Zachariassen struck the upright with a header inside the first 10 minutes for the visitors – coached by former Tottenham striker Robbie Keane – but it was dominantly the home side from that point forward.

They broke the deadlock in the 17th minute when a delivery from midfield was turned into his own net by Bence Otvos and added a second shortly after – Jesus firing an effort in at the far post for his 10th goal of the campaign.

Jesus' eleventh goal arrived early in the second half when he timed a run perfectly to break clear of the defence and then drive an effort beyond the goalkeeper.

The third strike killed off the visitors' hopes of making a comeback and instead the hosts scored again when the impressive James McAtee converted a spot-kick after a infringement by the hapless Bence Otvos inside the penalty area on the winger.

Europe's secondary club competition knockout phase play-off lottery takes place on Friday, 30 January (12:00 GMT), where Forest might face either Fenerbahce or the Greek club.

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

"This is another step, but it is a good step."

Team Breakdown: Striker Shines as Recent Arrival Watches On

Jesus has been a revelation for Forest in Europe this season with six of his 11 goals scored in the tournament.

His brace also means he has scored three goals in his previous two outings and the threat of a challenge for his place in attack could be spurring him on.

Italian forward Lorenzo Lucca was last week signed on loan and he was observing this match from the stands.

That may well have been on the striker's thoughts as he was outstanding against the opposition, producing two excellent finishes and generally being a menace to the opposition backline with his speed and movement.

Jesus was not the only one in catching the eye, with James McAtee producing his finest display in a Forest jersey since signing from the champions last summer, while the Swiss international also performed well.

These encouraging performances will give Forest some renewed optimism as they switch focus to pulling further away from the Premier League relegation zone when they host their London rivals on Sunday.

"All you can ask for is a reaction," added the manager.

"I have always trusted their commitment or their dedication or honesty. It is just go and show your ability.

"McAtee was very good and Dan Ndoye was super sharp. Jesus got another two and these are positive indicators."

Star Performer

Forest Key Performers

• Igor Jesus: Rating 9.10
• #24: Average Rating 8.75
• R. Yates: Rating 8.63
• #6: Rating 8.0
• N. Milenković: Rating 7.9

The Visitors Notable Players

• B. Yusuf: Average Rating 4.1
• #66: Rating 4.1
• #16: Average Rating 4.1