Wrexham, Wales – In a stunning FA Cup upset, Wrexham triumphed over Premier League side Nottingham Forest in a penalty shootout after a thrilling 3-3 draw. Goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo emerged as the hero, saving two crucial penalties to secure the victory for the Red Dragons and send them into the fourth round of the competition.
The match, held at Wrexham's Racecourse Ground, was a captivating affair from the start. Despite sitting just above the relegation zone in the Premier League, Nottingham Forest were considered favorites, but Wrexham, playing with confidence fueled by a packed stadium, had other plans.
Forest initially threatened, with Igor Jesus missing an early chance. They even had a goal disallowed in the 17th minute when Douglas Luiz scored after controlling the ball with his arm. Wrexham grew into the game, and Sam Smith came close to scoring, firing just wide of the post.
The turning point came shortly before halftime when Wrexham scored two goals in quick succession. Liberato Cacace found the net with a deflected shot from 20 yards, marking his first goal for Wrexham. Just three minutes later, Ollie Rathbone coolly slotted the ball past Forest goalkeeper Matz Sels to double Wrexham's lead. Smith missed a chance to make it 3-0 when Sels denied him.
At the start of the second half, Forest manager Sean Dyche made a triple substitution, bringing on Neco Williams, Nicolas Dominguez, and Morgan Gibbs-White in an attempt to turn the game around. The changes had an immediate impact, as Forest began to apply pressure. Okonkwo made a good save to deny Luiz. Igor Jesus pulled a goal back for Forest with a header that bounced in off the post. Wrexham responded, with Dominic Hyam heading in a free-kick to restore their two-goal advantage.
However, Forest mounted a late comeback, with substitute Callum Hudson-Odoi scoring twice in the final minutes to level the score and send the match into extra time. His first goal was a neat finish, followed by a stunning volley.
Extra time failed to produce a winner, although both sides came close. Okonkwo made a crucial save to tip Neco Williams' effort over the bar. The match went to penalties, where Okonkwo became the hero. He saved spot-kicks from Igor Jesus and Omari Hutchinson, sealing a 4-3 shootout victory for Wrexham.
Wrexham's victory was a testament to their resilience and determination. The win marks a historic moment for the club, showcasing their ability to compete with and defeat teams from higher divisions.
