In a stunning FA Cup upset, Championship side Wrexham triumphed over Premier League's Nottingham Forest with a 4-3 penalty shootout victory following a 3-3 draw after extra time. The hero of the hour was Wrexham goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo, whose two crucial saves in the shootout propelled his team into the fourth round.
The match, held at Wrexham's home ground, was a rollercoaster of emotions for the fans. Wrexham, co-owned by Hollywood actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, started strong, taking a 2-0 lead into halftime thanks to goals from Liberato Cacace and Ollie Rathbone. Cacace's goal was his first for Wrexham, while Rathbone coolly slotted his shot past the Forest keeper.
Nottingham Forest, however, mounted a comeback in the second half. Igor Jesus reduced the deficit with a header in the 64th minute. Wrexham responded swiftly, with Dominic Hyam scoring with a diving header to restore their two-goal advantage. Just when it seemed Wrexham had secured the win, Forest substitute Callum Hudson-Odoi scored twice, in the 76th and 89th minutes, forcing the game into extra time. Hudson-Odoi's second goal, a volley, came just a minute before the full-time whistle.
Extra time failed to produce a winner, despite both teams creating opportunities. Okonkwo made a fine save to tip Neco Williams' effort over the bar, while Wrexham also threatened. The match proceeded to a penalty shootout. James McClean missed his penalty for Wrexham, giving Forest an advantage, but Okonkwo stepped up, saving from Igor Jesus and Omari Hutchinson to secure a memorable victory for the home side.
Okonkwo's heroics sparked jubilant scenes among the Wrexham players and fans. Speaking after the game, Okonkwo said that the manager had spoken to them before the game about the history of the club and how they were capable of beating teams "way above" them. He added, "It was amazing to win the game in the end. We just have to enjoy the moment".
This FA Cup victory marks another significant milestone in Wrexham's remarkable journey. Since being acquired by Reynolds and McElhenney in 2021, the club has experienced a resurgence, including promotion to the Championship. This win against Nottingham Forest is Wrexham's fifth in a row and their first time eliminating a Premier League side in 26 years. For Nottingham Forest, the defeat adds to their challenges, with Premier League survival and the Europa League potentially taking priority.
