Nottingham Forest's Europa League Opener: Igor Jesus Shines Amidst Chris Wood's Bench Role
Nottingham Forest's teamsheet for their first European match in 29 years raised eyebrows as Chris Wood found himself on the bench. The New Zealand forward had been instrumental in securing Forest's return to Europe with 20 Premier League goals last season.
Head coach Ange Postecoglou opted to start Igor Jesus, the 24-year-old Brazilian striker who joined from Botafogo for £10 million in July.
In Forest's Europa League opener against Real Betis, Jesus quickly demonstrated his potential to be one of the Premier League's most exciting signings. After falling behind 1-0, he equalized with a simple tap-in, and just minutes later, he headed Forest into a 2-1 lead from a corner.
However, former Manchester United forward Antony leveled the score in the 85th minute, denying Forest a victory in their first of eight group stage matches.
The situation raises questions about Wood's future in the starting lineup, as he remained an unused substitute. "Chris Wood definitely has to watch his back," remarked former Forest and West Ham forward Michail Antonio on TNT Sports.
Modern-Day Drogba?
Jesus celebrated both of his goals against Betis by dropping to his knees and pointing skyward. He was lively throughout the match, contributing to six of Forest's 16 attempts, with three shots on target. He could have even scored a first-half hat-trick, but a goalbound effort after a brilliant run by Elliot Anderson was blocked before Postecoglou replaced him in the 64th minute.
The 5,000 traveling Forest fans in Seville, witnessing their team's first competitive European match since 1996, gave Jesus a standing ovation as he left the pitch. "He definitely looks like a real threat," Antonio added. "His movement and hold-up play are impressive; he seems both big and strong."
Jesus made his Brazil debut last October, scoring in a World Cup qualifying win in Chile. In June, he netted the winner for Botafogo against European champions Paris Saint-Germain at the Club World Cup, leading South American football expert Tim Vickery to label him a modern-day Didier Drogba.
Postecoglou's decision to start Jesus instead of Wood drew praise from former Forest and England midfielder Steve Hodge on BBC Radio Nottingham, who noted, "Igor Jesus has made his mark tonight." With two goals against Swansea City in the Carabao Cup last week, Jesus has now scored four goals in two starts for his new club.
Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson, who also impressed against Betis, believes Jesus could be a pivotal player this season. "He's always in the right position, which is crucial for a striker. He’s done really well and we see it in training. I’m really happy for Igor," Anderson stated.
Wood Will Not Be Happy
Wood has been a key player for Forest since making his loan from Newcastle a permanent move in 2023. Only Mohamed Salah (29), Alexander Isak (23), and Erling Haaland (22) scored more goals than Wood in the Premier League last season. He started this season strong, scoring twice in a 3-1 win over Brentford.
Despite starting both Premier League games since Postecoglou took over, including a 3-0 defeat to Arsenal and a 1-1 draw at Burnley, it remains uncertain whether Wood will return to the lineup for the upcoming match against Sunderland on Saturday.
Meanwhile, Postecoglou is still searching for his first win after four matches in charge, despite a largely positive performance against Betis. After losses to Arsenal and Swansea City, followed by a draw at Burnley, Wednesday's display was a step forward, with Forest looking poised for a win until Antony's late equalizer.
"I thought our football was outstanding at times in the first half," Postecoglou reflected. "The only thing I could fault is that we didn’t put the game to bed. I’m disappointed that the players and supporters didn’t get the rewards for their efforts. I just have to ensure they keep their heads up because there’s plenty to be positive about, and the wins will come."