Nottingham Forest striker Igor Jesus has set his sights on a place in Brazil's World Cup squad this summer, revealing his international dream as he prepares for a crucial European clash. The 25-year-old forward, who joined Forest from Botafogo last summer for £10 million, is currently the Europa League's top scorer with seven goals, a key figure in the club's continental campaign.

Jesus is in Porto with his teammates ahead of Thursday's Europa League quarter-final first leg, where he is eager to add to his 13-goal tally for the season. While his Premier League output stands at three goals, his prolific form in Europe has been a standout feature of Forest's run, including a goal in the 3-0 first-leg victory over Fenerbahce.

"To be among the players going to the World Cup would be a dream," Jesus stated at the Estadio do Dragao. "I think I have the skills for it, but it will result from what I do here too. I have been preparing very well, always trying to help my colleagues the best way possible."

The upcoming match presents a fascinating personal duel, as Jesus is set to face Porto's veteran defender and fellow Brazilian Thiago Silva. Undaunted by the challenge, Jesus remains focused on his team's objective. "He is a top centre-back, but I don't care about that. I want to do my best and help the team. We know our quality and we know we can do it."

With a World Cup spot for the tournament in the USA, Canada, and Mexico on the line, Jesus's performances in these high-stakes European nights could be the perfect audition for the Seleção, blending club ambition with national team aspiration.