Charlie Grace

Thu 25 September 2025 6:45, UK

Nottingham Forest kicked off their Europa League campaign with a 2-2 draw away at Real Betis on Wednesday evening.

A brace for Igor Jesus against Betis gave Forest a 2-1 halftime lead, but the hosts’ second-half pressure paid dividends when Antony scored a late equaliser.

Ange Postecoglou, who took over from Nuno Espirito Santo, is still looking for his first win at Nottingham Forest after the draw.

Nottingham Forest’s 3-2 loss to Swansea City was a low point in Postecoglou’s early tenure, which has yielded two draws and two defeats so far.

Steve Hodge thinks Chris Wood ‘won’t be happy’ at Nottingham Forest

Jesus’ brace continued the Brazilian’s electric start to life at the City Ground, scoring four goals in two starts since Postecoglou took over.

Speaking on BBC Nottingham, ex-Forest and England midfielder Steve Hodge spoke about Jesus’ performance.

“Igor Jesus has made his mark tonight,” Hodge said.

“Chris Wood has stayed on the bench all night tonight – maybe that is looking towards the weekend? Maybe he has got an injury or is feeling tired? Who knows.

“From Chris’ point of view, he won’t be happy tonight, he will be want to be out there in big games like this.”

Chris Wood goes from hero to zero

Wood, who has started both of Nottingham Forest’s Premier League games under Postecoglou this season, is yet to score for the Australian.

The New Zealand international has only scored twice in five league games this season, going goalless in his last four appearances.

A first-half brace against Brentford on the opening day remains Wood’s only goals to date, leaving the New Zealander without a goal in nine halves of Premier League football.

Wood will hope he can return to the form that saw him return 20 goals last season in the Premier League, but Jesus’ form under Postecoglou will keep the striker on high alert going forward.