When Nottingham Forest revealed their starting XI for their first European outing in nearly three decades, some eyebrows were raised. Chris Wood, whose 20 league strikes last season helped secure continental football, was left among the substitutes.
Instead, Ange Postecoglou opted for a different approach, handing a start to summer signing Igor Jesus, the £10m forward brought in from Botafogo.
The choice paid off swiftly. With Real Betis ahead in Seville, the 24-year-old reacted quickly to level the score, then put Forest in front minutes later with a header from a corner.
Forest’s advantage lasted until the closing stages, when ex-Manchester United attacker Antony struck an equaliser in the 85th minute to ensure the match ended level.
Questions over Wood’s role
Wood’s absence from the pitch was notable. The 33-year-old, who made his move from Newcastle permanent last year, finished as one of the division’s top scorers in 2023-24, behind only Mohamed Salah, Alexander Isak and Erling Haaland.
He began this season in similar form, netting twice in the opening win over Brentford, and had started the league fixtures against Arsenal and Burnley under Postecoglou.
Even so, he was unused in Seville. “Chris Wood definitely has to watch his back,” observed former Forest and West Ham striker Michail Antonio on TNT Sports.
Steve Hodge, speaking on BBC Radio Nottingham, added that Wood would be frustrated to sit out such a high-profile fixture, given his importance to the team in recent months.
Energetic debut on the European stage
Igor Jesus gave the travelling supporters plenty to cheer. From his six efforts, three were on target, and he could easily have had a first-half hat-trick.
His display combined movement, power and determination. Postecoglou replaced him in the 64th minute, but not before the striker received a standing ovation from the 5,000 fans who had made the trip to Spain.
Antonio praised his presence, describing him as strong, effective in link-up play, and a constant danger to the opposition.
Forest teammate Elliot Anderson, who impressed in midfield, highlighted Jesus’ awareness in the penalty area, noting how consistently he finds himself in the right positions.
Building a reputation
The Brazilian has quickly introduced himself to supporters, having already struck twice in the Carabao Cup against Swansea. His brace against Betis brings his tally to four goals in just two starts for the club.
He also has international experience, scoring on his debut for Brazil in a World Cup qualifier against Chile last October. In June, he netted Botafogo’s decisive goal against Paris Saint-Germain at the Club World Cup, earning comparisons to Didier Drogba from South American football analysts.
For Postecoglou, who is still chasing his first victory as Forest manager after four matches in charge, the emergence of Igor Jesus is a positive sign.
“I thought our football was outstanding at times in the first half,” the head coach reflected. “The only thing I can fault is that we didn’t put the game to bed.”
Forest return to domestic action against Sunderland at the City Ground, where the decision over whether to restore Wood or continue with Jesus will be one of the major talking points.