Nottingham Forest’s City Ground transformed into a stunning projection in homage to the Reds 1979 European Cup triumph before their renewed acquaintance on Thursday night with old friends Malmö FF who Forest beat 3-0.

The Brian Clough Stand was lit up in spectacular fashion as it was transformed into a giant projection, ahead of their UEFA Europa League tie.

The fixture was a repeat of the 1979 European Cup Final in Munich, where a Trevor Francis diving header was enough to secure the club’s first European Cup and the club ran a series of events to celebrate the two teams first ever meeting 46 years ago.

To mark the occasion, Nottingham Forest and their partner Bally Bet, lit up the Brian Clough Stand like never before. The back of the stand was transformed into a giant screen, that projected a 2-minute film for fans to enjoy as they made their way into the City Ground.

The film heroes the events of the European Cup Final, featuring clips from that ‘One night in 79’, including club legend Brian Clough and the famous Francis winner. The piece is all woven together with memories from fans of the historic night in Munich and their messages of support for the team ahead of a repeat of the fixture, 46 years on.

The activation, titled ‘River Roars Red’, created excitement and intrigue amongst legends and match-going fans alike as they poured into the City Ground.

John McGovern, who captained Nottingham Forest to victory in 1979 commented: “What a sight! To see the Brian Clough Stand lit up, projecting clips from our glorious night in Munich was very special indeed. I have watched that Trevor Francis header back many times, but I have never seen it quite like it was tonight. It was amazing to enjoy it all again with our fans, it certainly set the tone for another huge European night. Thanks to our partner Bally Bet for helping us truly mark the occasion.”

Lifelong fan, Stewart Lynn commented: “That is quality. Just watching it back on the screen just then, it puts shivers down your spine. I’m 55 now and it is like whenever I watch it I am 10 years old again”.

The River Roars Red activation is part of a broader season long campaign run by Nottingham Forest’s partner Bally Bet, titled ‘Speak the Game’; A rallying cry harnessing and celebrating passion amongst sports fans.

*Main image @NFFC the City Ground looked spectacular in projection ahead of the Reds match v Malmo.