Wrexham vs Nottingham Forest: FA Cup Magic as Wrexham Stun Premier League Forest in Epic Penalty Shootout
The FA Cup once again reminded the football world why it remains the most magical domestic competition on the planet. On a dramatic night at the Racecourse Ground, Wrexham AFC delivered one of the shocks of the season by eliminating Nottingham Forest after a breathtaking 3–3 draw and a nerve-shredding penalty shootout victory.
For Wrexham, this was more than a win. It was a statement.
For Forest, it was a painful reminder that reputation alone does not win FA Cup ties.
From stunning goals and late drama to heroic goalkeeping and Hollywood-level emotion, Wrexham vs Nottingham Forest had everything a football fan could ask for.
Match Summary: Wrexham vs Nottingham Forest (FA Cup Third Round)
- Competition: FA Cup – Third Round
- Venue: STōK Cae Ras (Racecourse Ground), Wrexham
- Final Score:
Wrexham 3–3 Nottingham Forest
(Wrexham won 4–3 on penalties) - Attendance: Sell-out crowd, electric atmosphere
This match quickly became one of the most searched FA Cup fixtures, with fans worldwide looking for Wrexham score, FA Cup results, Forest vs Wrexham, and what channel is FA Cup on.
A Night That Defined the FA Cup Spirit
The FA Cup has always thrived on unpredictability, and this tie captured that spirit perfectly. A club backed by global stars but built on community belief stood toe-to-toe with a Premier League side — and refused to blink.
Wrexham’s performance was fearless, organised, and emotionally charged. Nottingham Forest, despite their quality, struggled to cope with the intensity and atmosphere generated by a roaring Welsh crowd.
First Half: Wrexham Shock the Favorites (Wrexham vs Nottingham Forest)
Few expected Wrexham to dominate the early stages — but that is exactly what they did.
37th Minute – Liberato Cacace Breaks the Deadlock
Wrexham’s intent was rewarded when Liberato Cacace unleashed a powerful strike from outside the box, sending the home fans into delirium. It was a goal that set the tone for the evening.
40th Minute – Oliver Rathbone Doubles the Lead
Just minutes later, Oliver Rathbone capitalized on Forest’s disorganisation, finishing clinically to make it 2–0. Nottingham Forest looked stunned.
At halftime, the Premier League side faced a harsh reality — this was not going to be a routine FA Cup night.
Second Half: Forest Fight Back, Drama Unfolds
64th Minute – Igor Jesus Sparks the Comeback
Forest finally found a foothold when Igor Jesus powered home a header, cutting the deficit to 2–1.
74th Minute – Dominic Hyam Restores Control
Wrexham responded immediately. Dominic Hyam rose highest from a set piece, heading home to make it 3–1. At that moment, a historic upset felt inevitable.
76th & 89th Minute – Callum Hudson-Odoi Turns the Game
Refusing to surrender, Callum Hudson-Odoi produced a moment of Premier League quality — not once, but twice.
- First, he curled in a beautiful finish to make it 3–2.
- Then, in the 89th minute, he struck again, silencing the Racecourse Ground and forcing extra time.
It was elite mentality from Hudson-Odoi, and suddenly the tie was wide open again.
Extra Time: Tension Without Resolution
Both sides pushed, but fatigue began to show. Wrexham defended bravely, while Forest probed without finding a breakthrough.
When the referee finally blew for penalties, the atmosphere was almost unbearable. FA Cup nights rarely get this intense.
Penalty Shootout: Arthur Okonkwo Becomes a Wrexham Legend
Penalty shootouts often define careers — and this one crowned a hero.
Arthur Okonkwo, Wrexham’s goalkeeper, delivered under extreme pressure:
- Two crucial penalty saves
- Ice-cold composure
- Complete control of the moment
As Wrexham converted their kicks and Forest faltered, the scoreboard read 4–3.
The underdogs had done it.
Okonkwo was immediately surrounded by teammates, fans, and staff — his name echoing around the stadium.
Player of the Match: Arthur Okonkwo
There is no debate.
Okonkwo’s performance was decisive:
- Commanded his area all night
- Made key saves in open play
- Won the shootout almost single-handedly
For fans searching “Wrexham goalkeeper” or “Okonkwo Wrexham”, this was the performance that defined his FA Cup legacy.
Other Key Performers
Callum Hudson-Odoi (Nottingham Forest)
Despite the defeat, Hudson-Odoi was outstanding:
- Two late goals
- Leadership under pressure
- The reason Forest reached penalties
Liberato Cacace (Wrexham)
His early strike changed the match psychologically and forced Forest out of their comfort zone.
Oliver Rathbone
A tireless midfield display capped with a crucial goal.
Tactical Breakdown: How Wrexham Outplayed Forest
Phil Parkinson’s Tactical Masterclass
Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson deserves immense credit.
Key elements of his plan:
- Compact defensive structure
- Quick transitions
- Set-piece efficiency
- Mental resilience
Wrexham did not try to out-possess Forest. Instead, they focused on being effective, not flashy.
Where Nottingham Forest Fell Short
Forest struggled in key moments:
- Defensive lapses in the first half
- Lack of composure when trailing
- Penalty shootout nerves
Despite their individual quality, Forest never fully controlled the match.
Ryan Reynolds and the Global Spotlight
Much of the world’s attention was drawn not just by the result — but by Ryan Reynolds.
The Hollywood actor and Wrexham co-owner was visibly emotional throughout:
- Celebrating goals wildly
- Reacting nervously during penalties
- Embracing players and fans afterward
His presence continues to amplify Wrexham’s global profile, particularly in the United States and Canada, where searches like “Ryan Reynolds Wrexham” surged after the match.
Why This Result Matters for Wrexham
This was not just a win — it was a landmark moment.
- A lower-league side eliminating Premier League opposition
- Proof of Wrexham’s growth under new ownership
- A morale-boosting moment for the entire season
It also reinforced Wrexham’s reputation as one of the most compelling stories in modern football.
FA Cup Significance: Why Fans Love This Competition
Matches like Wrexham vs Nottingham Forest explain why the FA Cup remains special:
- No guarantees
- No easy fixtures
- Every club starts equal
For fans searching FA Cup live, FA Cup highlights, or FA Cup scores, this was a reminder of football at its purest.
What’s Next for Both Teams?
Wrexham
- Momentum heading into the FA Cup Fourth Round
- Increased confidence across the squad
- Belief that they can compete with anyone
Nottingham Forest
- Focus shifts back to league commitments
- Questions about squad rotation and mentality
- A missed opportunity to build cup momentum
Fan Reactions: A Night to Remember
Social media exploded after full time:
- Wrexham fans called it “one of the greatest nights in club history”
- Neutral fans praised the atmosphere and drama
- Forest supporters expressed frustration but acknowledged Wrexham’s heart
This was a match that united football fans — regardless of allegiance.
FAQs: Wrexham vs Nottingham Forest
Q1. Did Wrexham beat Nottingham Forest in the FA Cup?
Yes, Wrexham defeated Nottingham Forest in the FA Cup after a 3–3 draw, winning 4–3 on penalties at the Racecourse Ground.
Q2. Who scored for Wrexham against Nottingham Forest?
Wrexham goals were scored by Liberato Cacace, Oliver Rathbone, and Dominic Hyam.
Q3. Who was the goalkeeper hero for Wrexham?
Arthur Okonkwo was the hero for Wrexham, saving two penalties in the shootout to secure victory.
Q4. How many goals did Callum Hudson-Odoi score?
Callum Hudson-Odoi scored two late goals for Nottingham Forest to force extra time.
Q5. What competition was Wrexham vs Nottingham Forest played in?
The match was played in the FA Cup third round.
Q6. Who is the manager of Wrexham AFC?
Phil Parkinson is the manager of Wrexham AFC.
Q7. Why is Ryan Reynolds linked with Wrexham?
Ryan Reynolds is the co-owner of Wrexham AFC and attended the FA Cup match, celebrating the historic win.
Q8. Where can fans watch FA Cup matches?
FA Cup matches are broadcast on major sports networks and streaming platforms depending on region, including ESPN+ in the United States.
For readers interested in the latest
Miami Hurricanes vs. Ole Miss Rebels: Fiesta Bowl 2026 Recap, Highlights, and Analysis