Real Betis strike late to secure draw against Nottingham Forest

Real Betis 2-2 Nottingham Forest

Real Betis have picked up a point in their first match back in the Europa League, having drawn 2-2 against Premier League side Nottingham Forest at La Cartuja.

The early proceedings were competitive, but it was Betis that struck the first blow in Seville. Antony recycled the ball on the right wing before playing in Cedric Bakambu, who rifled home his second goal of the season to give Manuel Pellegrini’s side a dream start.

However, it was short-lived as the visitors got an equaliser three minutes later. A fine team move saw Morgan Gibbs-White cross for Igor Jesus, who could not miss from only a few yards out. And he would get his and Nottingham Forest’s second of the evening soon after, as he headed home from a corner.

Those goals meant that Betis went into the half time interval at a disadvantage, which was disappointing after a strong start. However, the words of Pellegrini made an impact on his side, as they came out firing in the second period, as Ricardo Rodriguez, Marc Roca and Rodrigo Riquelme were also introduced in a triple substitution.

Antony strikes first goal since summer return to save point

And it was Roca that provided the assist for Betis’ equalising goal, which was scored by Antony. A cutback from the left reached the winger at the back post, and he found the back of the net for the first time since re-joining the club from Manchester United earlier this month.

Betis will be content with a point, although it could have been much better had they not thrown away their early lead by conceding twice in five minutes. Nevertheless, they’ll look forward to their next Europa League match, which is away at Ludogorets Razgrad next Thursday.