Antony played the hero for Betis in the Europa League.

25/09/2025 07:41:00 TrophyTracker

During the intense 2-2 draw between Real Betis and Nottingham Forest in the Europa League, former Manchester United player Antony once again demonstrated his value by scoring a late equalizer, earning a vital point for the Spanish team.

The game started with Real Betis controlling the play, as Cedric Bakambu took advantage of a defensive mistake from Forest to score in the 15th minute. Antony, with a clever dribble on the right wing, assisted Bakambu to easily overcome goalkeeper Matz Sels. Nevertheless, Nottingham Forest responded quickly. Just three minutes later, Igor Jesus leveled the score at 1-1 with a close-range finish after a beautiful combination involving Oleksandr Zinchenko, Douglas Luiz, and Morgan Gibbs-White. Less than five minutes later, Jesus continued his impressive performance by scoring a sharp header from Luiz’s corner, putting Forest ahead 2-1.

The first half saw Nottingham Forest dominate, creating numerous chances but failing to convert them. Jesus nearly completed a hat-trick when his shot struck the post, while Callum Hudson-Odoi and Neco Williams also missed good opportunities. Postecoglou’s daring style helped Forest control the match, but their inefficiency in front of goal cost them.

Antony took on the role of hero for Betis in the Europa League.

In the second half, Betis gradually regained control thanks to tactical adjustments by coach Manuel Pellegrini. Substitutes like Rodrigo Riquelme and Marc Roca injected new energy, allowing the hosts to increase pressure. Meanwhile, Forest kept their aggressive attacking approach but lacked the necessary precision. In the 85th minute, Antony’s shining moment arrived. Receiving a pass from Riquelme, the Brazilian finished accurately at the far post to equalize 2-2, leaving nearly 3,500 Forest supporters in the Seville stadium stunned.

Once viewed as a “thorn” by Manchester United fans, Antony is slowly becoming a star at Real Betis. Although his performance in this match wasn’t very remarkable, including a missed volley that went out of bounds, his late goal confirmed his significance to the Betis lineup. This pivotal goal helped the Spanish club avoid defeat at home.

For Nottingham Forest, the draw was unfortunate but also revealed their potential under Postecoglou. After winning the Europa League with Tottenham four months ago, the Australian coach is building an ambitious Forest team ready to compete offensively with any rival. However, defensive errors and poor finishing are lessons they need to learn before facing Sunderland in the Premier League this weekend.

The match concluded with a 2-2 scoreline, leaving strong emotions for both sides. For Real Betis, Antony remained the hero, while Nottingham Forest departed Seville with regret but also hope for their challenging Europa League campaign ahead.