Nottingham Forest travelled to Seville for their first European game in 30 years, settling for a 2-2 draw in an entertaining clash with Real Betis.
Even though Forest are one of the favourites for the Europa League, the Reds couldn’t have had a more difficult opening task, with Real Betis’ experience in UEFA competitions.
This experience was on show within 15 minutes as Betis hit the Reds on the break and Cedric Bakambu opened the scoring. Just three minutes later, though, the ever-impressive Igor Jesus found an equaliser.
Jesus rose to meet Douglas Luiz’s corner on 23 minutes to give Forest the lead in a remarkable few minutes, a lead that the Reds had plenty of opportunities to add to in the first half.
The second period saw Forest surrender possession perhaps more than Ange Postecoglou would’ve liked, with the equaliser coming through Antony with five minutes to play.
Nottingham Forest player ratings vs Real Betis
Matz Sels – 6
Bakambu’s strike was a powerful one, but the Forest shot-stopper may well be disappointed that it crept in at his near post.
Neco Williams – 7
Solid showing from Williams as he continues his switch back to right-back in the absence of Ola Aina.
Nicola Milenkovic – 7
Not a standout display from Milenkovic but solid enough. However, he was perhaps lucky to escape punishment for catching Rodrigo Riquelme in the face off the ball.
Morato – 8
An impressive display from the Brazilian who has deputised excellently for Murillo in defence, even providing the passing accuracy that makes his compatriot stand out.
Oleksandr Zinchenko – 7
When Forest are in their attacking flow, Zinchenko truly shines as he drifts into midfield. The Ukrainian didn’t show himself in the best light defensively, though, letting a ball drift past him in the box for Betis’ equaliser.
Ibrahim Sangare – 6
For the majority of the game, Sangare was solid in terms of his defensive positioning. A number of loose passes in midfield could’ve cost his side on another night, though.
Elliot Anderson – 9
Anderson’s remarkable start to the season continued as he rose to the challenge of the Europa League without any issues, starting endless attacks with his dribbling ability from deep.
Douglas Luiz – 7
Provided the assist from the corner for Igor Jesus’ second goal, but more importantly, the Brazilian controlled the tempo of the game before being subbed at halftime.
Morgan Gibbs-White – 7
The Forest skipper started from the right and looked at home in the role, providing the pinpoint pass across the box for Jesus’ equaliser. However, his influence waned after moving into midfield.
Callum Hudson-Odoi – 8
On the opposite wing, Hudson-Odoi caused young Angel Ortiz all sorts of issues with his direct running, often providing the spark that would kickstart an intricate Forest attack.
Igor Jesus – 9
Jesus wrote his name in Nottingham Forest folklore with his performance in Seville. His quickfire double calmed the nerves after Betis’ opener.
Substitutes
Dilane Bakwa – 7
Bakwa came on at half-time in place of Douglas Luiz in what was a surprising move, but the Frenchman was useful defensively down the right as he helped Williams.
Arnaud Kalimuendo – 5
A better first touch was all that prevented Kalimuendo from grabbing his first Forest goal after replacing Jesus, a moment that he might look back on with regret.
Dan Ndoye – 5
Struggled to influence proceedings after replacing Hudson-Odoi just past the hour mark.
Ryan Yates – 6
Entered the fray as Forest were struggling to contain the Betis attacking pressure.
Willy Boly – N/A
Played the final 20 seconds.
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