Forest Green Rovers began their English National League campaign with a 2-1 comeback win away at Halifax Town at The Shay on August 23, 2025. The visitors showed great resolve to overturn a halftime deficit, securing a vital three points on the opening day of the season. Halifax Town started brightly and were rewarded with a goal from a corner midway through the first half, taking a deserved lead into the break. Forest Green emerged for the second half with renewed purpose and equalized within ten minutes through a clever free-kick routine. The momentum had shifted, and the winner arrived from a swift counter-attack, finished calmly by the Forest Green striker to complete the turnaround. The key to the match was Forest Green's tactical adjustment at halftime, which allowed them to dominate the second period and exploit spaces in the Halifax defense. The result immediately put Forest Green near the top of the early National League table, while Halifax were left to reflect on a promising start that ultimately slipped away. The Halifax manager was disappointed with the second-half performance, while the Forest Green coach praised his team's character. Halifax Town lined up in a familiar 4-3-3, while Forest Green Rovers opted for a fluid 4-4-2 diamond system.