Nottingham Forest: Stefan Ortega’s contract must be examined after staggering performance vs Porto

Nottingham Forest held FC Porto to a 1-1 draw on Thursday to give themselves a superb chance of going to the Europa League semi-final next week, with Stefan Ortega largely to thank.

The German made save after save as the Premier League side were dominated in the opening 10 minutes, eventually going behind when William Gomes scored.

But just two minutes later, Nottingham Forest were given an absolute gift. Martim Fernandes was near the halfway line when he looked to pass back to goalkeeper Diogo Costa.

The right-back put far too much power on the pass, however, and it drove straight past his captain and into the back of his own net.

Nottingham Forest’s form has improved dramatically of late, and they will be confident of progressing at the City Ground next week.

Stefan Ortega keeps Nottingham Forest alive

Football Insider exclusively revealed this week that Nottingham Forest will not extend Ortega’s contract when it expires this summer.

On the balance of his performance on Thursday, however, decision-makers at the City Ground may be inclined to review that decision.

The 33-year-old was a wall at the back for the visitors, making countless saves to keep Porto from running away with the tie.

Ortega was immediately called into action after less than a minute had passed, when Terem Moffi broke through on goal.

The Nigerian shot low but was denied by the German’s strong arm, before he got back up to collect the rebound.

The Nottingham Forest keeper’s best save would come midway through the second half, when he showed superb reactions to tip Gomes’ effort round the post.

All in all, Ortega would make seven saves, denying 1.98 expected goals against and keeping his side in the tie.

Matz Sels future to be key for Ortega

Matz Sels was on the bench as Nottingham Forest drew with Porto, with the goalkeeper’s return from injury issues still being managed.

The Belgian has been a reliable figure for the Tricky Trees since his 2024 arrival from Strasbourg, but there are some question marks over his future this summer.

The 34-year-old is reportedly attracting interest from Club Brugge, and with his contract set to expire in 2027, there is a decision to be made.

Ortega’s performance on Thursday may have eased some concerns, but Nottingham Forest will soon need to make a determination on the future of both goalkeepers.

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