Tedesco Admits Fenerbahçe Deserved Loss Against Nottingham Forest in Europa League Playoff
Fenerbahçe suffered a disappointing 3-0 defeat against Nottingham Forest in the first leg of the UEFA Europa League playoff round on Thursday, February 19, 2026. Following the match, Fenerbahçe coach Domenico Tedesco candidly admitted his team deserved to lose.
Tedesco’s Post-Match Assessment
Tedesco stated that Fenerbahçe’s performance was subpar and that the team failed to create meaningful opportunities. He acknowledged the match could have resulted in a more significant defeat, suggesting a scoreline of 4-0 or 5-0 was possible in the first half. “Actually we deserved today’s defeat,” Tedesco said, as reported by Fanatik. “The first half could have been 4-0, 5-0. We couldn’t create proper positions.”
Midfield Struggles and Tactical Considerations
The coach similarly highlighted a lack of intensity and a failure to capitalize on limited chances, noting Sidiki Cherif had a promising opportunity early in the second half. Tedesco also touched upon the challenges of facing a team with a recently appointed coach, admitting they were unsure of what to expect from Nottingham Forest. He noted the opponent gained confidence while Fenerbahçe lost theirs.
Tedesco also discussed his team’s tactical approach, specifically addressing the apply of a “diamond” formation. He explained that while it can be effective, it is easily countered by opponents who understand how to play against it. He referenced a previous successful match against Brann where a surprise formation was employed, emphasizing the need for intensity when using such tactics. “We cannot play ‘diamond’ every week. It is simple to play against him,” Tedesco explained. “Today again we had 4 players in the middle but it was not enough. We lost every double challenge, if you lose every double challenge there is no point in talking.”
Nottingham Forest’s New Leadership
Tedesco acknowledged the impact of Nottingham Forest’s recent coaching change, suggesting it motivated their players to perform well and prove themselves to the new manager. He stated that the change created an opportunity for players who hadn’t been featuring regularly to earn a place in the team. Türkiye Gazetesi reported Tedesco stating the team was unpredictable due to the change.
Looking Ahead
Despite the disappointing result, Tedesco expressed his team’s motivation to win the return leg. The second leg will be crucial for Fenerbahçe’s hopes of progressing in the Europa League.