Appointed just four days earlier as Sean Dyche's successor, Pereira immediately ended Forest's three-game winless run and put the team firmly in control of the tie. With the second leg scheduled at the City Ground on 26 February, Forest now look strong favourites to reach the last 16, where they would face either Real Betis or Midtjylland.

Forest took the game to the hosts from the outset, dominating possession and showing a confidence missing during their Premier League struggles. The breakthrough came in the 21st minute when returning central defender Murillo picked the ball near the halfway line, surged forward unchallenged, and unleashed a 20-yard strike past goalkeeper Ederson into the bottom right corner.

The home side's rare threats included a Talisca effort that struck Murillo's arm, prompting VAR review, but no penalty was awarded, and Forest continued to control the game.

Three minutes before half-time, Forest doubled their lead. Morgan Gibbs-White flicked on a corner from Elliot Anderson, and Igor Jesus was on hand at the back post to nod home. The goal also saw Jesus surpass Garry Birtles' club record for most goals in a single European campaign, netting his seventh in the tournament.

After the break, the duo combined once more, this time with Jesus providing the assist for Gibbs-White to sweep in the third goal in the 50th minute, sealing a memorable night for the visitors. Forest continued to threaten, with Nicolás Domínguez and Callum Hudson-Odoi creating further chances, though Ederson kept a clean sheet with key saves.

Speaking after the match, Pereira highlighted the squad's professionalism and composure under pressure.

"The quality of the players (I liked the most). I asked them to express themselves on the pitch," said Pereira.

"They did it. We had a chance to score two more goals. It was a very good result. It is only half-time, we need to be consistent, the schedule is tight and difficult. Everyone must be ready to help the team. This is what I ask them."

The Portuguese coach also emphasised enjoyment and confidence as key factors for the team.

"I realised before I came that the players have a lot of quality," said the former Wolves boss. "They need results but they need to enjoy the game. If they enjoy the way they are playing they can have a high level. They need just organisation and confidence."

Forest now face a quick turnaround before welcoming Liverpool to the City Ground on Sunday. The performance in Istanbul will give Pereira belief that his team can compete both in the Premier League and in Europe, even under a hostile atmosphere.

PSG manager Luis Enrique questions Premier League's status ahead of semi-final clash