The Tricky Trees’ initial continental showdown in almost three decades concluded with a 2-2 stalemate versus Real Betis, while a goal near the end from former Ajax player Antony prolonged the wait for manager Steve Cooper’s initial triumph.
The past victors of the prestigious competition made their comeback to overseas tournaments for the first time since the mid-nineties and commenced this phase with what appeared to be their most challenging task.
Forest demonstrated resolve and ability in Seville, where a duo of goals by new signing, Igor Jesus, put them on course for a noteworthy victory, with the team reacting impressively to Cedric Bakambu’s early goal.
The Brazilian forward converted Morgan Gibbs-White’s grounded pass during the first half and triggered further delight among the travelling fans soon after by heading home from a Douglas Luiz corner.
Forest could have extended their lead further before halftime, then they remained resolute amidst increasing Betis pressure, up until near the end, when Antony followed up on his earlier assist by equalizing for last year’s Conference League finalists.
It was a late blow that denied Cooper a first win since taking over, however, the Welshman will gain inspiration from the initial match of a competition he won with Swansea some years ago.
The Forest manager made alterations for the Europa League opener and watched his anxious-looking squad make several early errors, with captain Gibbs-White cautioned quickly.
“I think the key for us right now is just that we continue to push on, continue to try and improve,” said Cooper.
“I’m so pleased that we didn’t come away with a defeat, because I think the lads did so many good things tonight and, again, the work rate was outstanding.”
Forest had a couple of opportunities as they tried to assert their influence, only to be surprised early on.
Antony evaded the defender before cutting in from the right and slipped a delicate pass to Bakambu, who found space to powerfully strike the ball past Matz Sels.
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The home crowd erupted, and their celebrations were confirmed by a VAR check for offside, however, their happiness would not last long.
Smart, complex play resulted in the ball being moved swiftly from the left, leading to Gibbs-White sending a low ball across for Jesus to convert from close range.
Another offside review could not dampen the enthusiasm of the Forest supporters, and shortly after, the travelling fans were overjoyed.
Luiz delivered a corner to the edge of the six-yard area, where Jesus jumped highest and guided a header past Pau López.
Betis were shocked and were now facing constant Forest attacks.
Jesus’ attempt to convert an Elliot Anderson cross was stopped by a block, with the striker seeing an effort saved soon after Callum Hudson-Odoi struck a post from a corner.
“I thought we gave them too many chances, particularly in the first half, and they scored from two of them,” said Cooper.
“We will learn from it and move on.”
“We are a work in progress, we know that. But the lads have a great attitude and we will keep working.”
Manuel Pellegrini’s side held out until the break and returned for the second half with several new players, while Cooper replaced Luiz with Dilane Bakwa.
The substitute volleyed over after a long period of Betis pressure lacking clear opportunities, as Forest defended in a manner expected from a more experienced team.
Natan and Cucho Hernández had chances as Betis attempted to equalize, with Pablo Fornals going close from the edge of the area via a touch missed by the official.
Betis increased their pressure and it paid off near the end.
Substitute Marc Roca made space to send over a left-footed cross to the far post, where Antony scored with a first-time finish.
