Speedy Igor Jesus Scores, Brings Dragon Ball Z to Forest

Nottingham Forest’s Brazilian forward Igor Jesus brought a touch of anime magic to the pitch on Thursday, celebrating his lightning-fast goal in the Europa League like Dragon Ball Z’s Goku.

Coming off the bench, Jesus needed just 82 seconds to open the scoring in Forest’s 2-1 victory at Utrecht, marking his fourth goal in European competition for the club and his seventh overall this season.

“It was amazing to score so quickly,” said the 24-year-old. “When I was on the bench, I was focused on the game, and once the coach brought me on, I gave my best. I want to keep performing like this.”

Jesus’ journey began at Coritiba in Brazil, where he scored three goals in 24 appearances as an 18-year-old to help the club secure promotion. After a brief struggle at a higher level, he moved to Shabab Al-Ahli in the UAE, scoring 46 goals in 92 games over four seasons.

Returning to Brazil with Botafogo in 2024, Jesus played a key role as the club lifted both the Serie A and Copa Libertadores titles. His performances drew global attention, and he made his Brazil debut in October 2024, scoring in a 2-1 World Cup qualifying victory over Chile.

Renowned South American football expert Tim Vickery praised him as “the modern-day Drogba,” particularly after he scored the winner against European champions PSG in the Club World Cup group stage.

Jesus’ goal also carried historic significance for Nottingham Forest supporters. The club hadn’t celebrated a European away victory since 1995, making this win a momentous occasion. The triumph keeps Forest firmly in contention for a top-eight finish in the Europa League group stage, ensuring a spot in the knockout rounds.

Forest manager Sean Dyche praised the team: “I’m delighted for the fans. The players are mixing well, results are good, and long may it continue.”