Nottingham Forest ended a 10-game winless run with a 2-0 triumph over Porto in the Europa League on Thursday.
Dyche, appointed just two days earlier to replace the sacked Ange Postecoglou, guided Forest to a much-needed boost in confidence, with Morgan Gibbs-White and Igor Jesus both scoring from the penalty spot at the City Ground. The result also ended Porto’s 12-match unbeaten streak in all competitions.
“The players and the fans have been through a lot,” Dyche told TNT Sports after his winning debut. “To give them something back means a great deal. It’s only a start, there’s a lot more work to do, but it’s a good start.”
Forest began brightly under their new boss, pressing high and showing intent from the outset. Callum Hudson-Odoi twice went close before Gibbs-White converted from the spot after Jan Bednarek handled Douglas Luiz’s cross.
The hosts remained disciplined defensively, with goalkeeper Matz Sels making key saves to deny Alan Varela and Samu Aghehowa.
After the interval, Forest doubled their advantage when Nicolo Savona was brought down by Martim Fernandes, allowing Igor Jesus to calmly slot home his penalty down the middle. It was the first time Forest had kept a clean sheet since April, a statistic that pleased their new manager.
“To get a win and a clean sheet gives everyone belief,” Dyche said. “The shape was good, and we showed a bit of balance in and out of possession. We’ll get fitter and sharper, it’ll take time, but this was a solid foundation.”
Known for his pragmatic style, Dyche hinted that Forest would adopt a more direct approach under his guidance. “I don’t want to be a purist, I want to stretch teams,” he added. “That gives us space to play and express ourselves.”
Forest, now looking to build on their European success, return to Premier League action on Sunday when they visit third-placed Bournemouth. Dyche’s men sit 18th in the table on five points and will be desperate to carry their newfound momentum into the league campaign.
