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Postecoglou still waiting for first Forest win
Andrew Slevison • September 25th, 2025 9:34 am
Nottingham Forest’s Europa League campaign under Ange Postecoglou commenced with a frustrating 2-2 draw with Real Betis overnight.
It was Postecoglou’s first match back in the European competition since lifting the trophy with Tottenham in Bilbao in May.
It was Forest’s first match back in Europe in 29 years.
It didn't start well for the English side as Betis struck first through Cedric Bakambu in the 15th minute.
Brazilian striker Igor Jesus levelled just three minutes later when tapping in Morgan Gibbs-White's cross for Forest's first goal in Europe since 1996.
Forest were then 2-1 ahead in the 23rd minute when Jesus added a second. There were chances to add to the lead on the counter, but Forest were unable to put the Spaniards away.
The Forest frustrations reached fever pitch in the 85th minute when Antony, who joined permanently from Manchester United earlier this month, came up with an equaliser for Betis.
It denied Australian manager Postecoglou a first victory with his new club.
“I’m super proud of the players’ efforts, it’s a difficult place to come in difficult conditions,” he told TNT Sports.
“The humidity out there, how energy-sapping it was. I thought our football was outstanding at times in the first half.
“The only thing I can fault is we didn’t put the game to bed, we should have finished them off in the first half.
“We had moments when a little bit of calm and composure we could have got our third goal, but that’s the nature of football.
“When it’s a one-goal difference they can always hurt you and unfortunately that’s what happened to us.”
Postecoglou has failed to salute in four matches as Forest boss which includes this draw and a draw in the Premier League plus two defeats.
They next host seventh-placed Sunderland in the league this weekend.
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