Nottingham Forest’s return to European football ended in heartbreak as Antony scored an 85th-minute equaliser for Real Betis, denying the visitors a historic win. Igor Jesus had twice put Forest ahead after Cédric Bakambu’s early goal gave Betis the lead.
Forest, managed by Ange Postecoglou, dominated for long periods, with Igor Jesus almost completing a first-half hat-trick. The visitors had 13 shots to Betis’s one by half-time and controlled much of the game, showcasing Postecoglou’s attacking vision.
The Championship side had their first competitive European match since March 1996, giving thousands of travelling fans a taste of continental football. Despite the late setback, Forest supporters sang enthusiastically, proud of the team’s performance and progress under Postecoglou.
Betis had started strongly, with Bakambu finishing a slick Antony assist in the 15th minute. Forest quickly responded through Igor Jesus, who finished a flowing team move and then added a header from a Douglas Luiz corner. Forest’s dominance continued, with Arnaud Kalimuendo and Oleksandr Zinchenko creating several opportunities, though Betis defended stoutly.
Postecoglou admitted his side lacked a bit of luck and stressed the importance of converting good performances into victories. Forest will now aim for their first European win at home when Sunderland visit the City Ground.
