Antony Stars as Real Betis Deny Forest Dream Europa League Return

Antony reminded European football of his quality on Thursday night in Seville, as his goal and assist salvaged a 2-2 draw for Real Betis against Nottingham Forest on their long-awaited return to continental competition.

The Brazilian winger, once deemed a costly flop at Manchester United, was the difference-maker under the Andalusian lights. He teed up Cedric Bakambu after just 15 minutes to hand Betis the lead, before striking a dramatic equaliser five minutes from time to crush Forest’s hopes of a famous away victory.

For Ange Postecoglou, it was a bitter introduction to European management with Forest. Igor Jesus had spearheaded their fightback, scoring twice either side of half-time to turn the game on its head and put the visitors within touching distance of a first European win since the 1995-96 UEFA Cup. But Antony’s late intervention ensured the spoils were shared.

Joe Cole, analysing the clash for TNT Sports, summed up the frustration: “They know they should have won. But when you’re clinging to a result you start playing with fear, and that’s something Forest will need to learn from at this level.”

For Betis, the night belonged to Antony. Signed permanently earlier this month for £21 million after an impressive loan spell that yielded nine goals and five assists last season, he is quickly repaying Manuel Pellegrini’s faith. His bright start is a far cry from the struggles that marked his Old Trafford chapter, and Betis supporters will hope his renaissance continues deep into this European campaign.

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