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Fenerbahce Fans Target Forest with Flares in UEL Second Leg

ESPN Soccer •
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Nottingham Forest players were forced to dodge fireworks thrown onto the pitch by Fenerbahce fans during their Europa League playoff second leg. Moments after kickoff, sections of the 1,500-strong away end launched several fireworks into the Forest penalty area, causing a three-minute delay.

Defender Jair Cunha had to take evasive action while Neco Williams also had to duck as he tried to carry one away. Fenerbahce defender Archie Brown, who came through Derby's academy, intervened to remove pyrotechnics while urging calm from his side's fans. The incident could now result in UEFA punishment for the Turkish club.

Forest, who hold a 3-0 aggregate lead from the first leg, are set to face either Real Betis or FC Midtjylland in the last 16. Despite the fireworks distraction, Fenerbahce raised hopes of a comeback by taking the lead in the 22nd minute through Kerem Aktürkoglu, a goal that was greeted by more fireworks being thrown onto the pitch.