Nottingham Forest’s European fairytale has just received a major adrenaline shot. As the Reds prepare for their historic Europa League quarter-final first leg against FC Porto tonight, head coach Vítor Pereira has confirmed that veteran striker Chris Wood is back in the matchday squad.
The 34-year-old marksman has been sidelined since mid-October after undergoing knee surgery in December. His six-month absence left a void in Forest’s frontline, but after proving his fitness with the under-21s, Wood has traveled to Portugal and is expected to feature from the bench at the Estádio do Dragão.
The Return of the Target Man
While summer sensation Igor Jesus—the joint top scorer in the competition—is slated to start, Wood’s return offers Pereira a “Plan B” that could be vital in a cagey away leg. Wood’s experience in high-pressure English football provides a physical edge that Forest have lacked during their domestic struggles.
Forest are currently balancing a tightrope between a fierce Premier League relegation battle and their first European quarter-final since 1980. However, the mood is buoyant following a stunning 3-0 win over Tottenham just before the break.
Key Match Facts: FC Porto vs. Nottingham Forest
• Venue: Estádio do Dragão, Portugal.
• Kick-off: 8:00 PM BST, Thursday, April 9, 2026.
• Previous Meeting: Forest beat Porto 2-0 at the City Ground earlier this season.
• The Streak: Porto have lost their last four European quarter-final ties; Forest will be looking to make it five.
Opposition Watch: Porto’s Injury Blow
In a double boost for the English side, Porto are sweat-testing their 18-year-old starlet Rodrigo Mora. The teenage playmaker has been restricted to gym work this week and remains a massive doubt, potentially stripping the Portuguese leaders of their most creative spark.
