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Wrexham claims historic FA Cup victory over Nottingham Forest
Wrexham secured a dramatic penalty shootout win over Premier League side Nottingham Forest in the FA Cup third round, marking their first triumph against top-flight opposition since 1999. The match, held at the Stok Cae Ras, unfolded with relentless tension and late heroics.
The match: A tale of two halves and extra time
Wrexham twice took a two-goal lead against last season's FA Cup semi-finalists, only to see Forest claw their way back into the contest. Exhaustion set in as the match stretched into extra time, but the home side held their nerve in the decisive penalty shootout. Goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo emerged as the hero, making crucial saves to seal the victory.
Among the standout performances was Ollie Rathbone, who made a triumphant return from injury, while Liberato Cacace and Dom Hyam scored their first goals for the club. The win was a nod to Wrexham's storied FA Cup history, with 1992 hero Mickey Thomas in attendance to witness the modern-day upset.
Reactions: Praise and frustration
Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson reflected on the significance of the victory, telling his players before the match that they had the chance to create their own piece of history. "We highlighted some of the great moments in this club's FA Cup history," he said. "Could we make our own bit of history tonight? We've certainly done that."
"It's a magical night. It's just a classic FA Cup game."
Liberato Cacace, Wrexham defender
Nottingham Forest manager Sean Dyche, while critical of his team's performance, acknowledged Wrexham's growing momentum. "It's not just about the money, the fame, and the people involved who have been amazing in the whole story," he said. "To keep that edge and keep pushing as they're doing is tremendous."
Forest's struggles and Wrexham's rise
Dyche was scathing in his assessment of Forest's display, particularly in the first half. "We built up to the game, there was a serious edge to it, we told them about Wrexham-and we were miles off," he said. "Then we had three important players who came on and showed their hand, and the whole thing changed. We looked like a Premier League outfit."
For Wrexham, the victory adds to a remarkable season. The club, which was playing in non-league football as recently as 2023, now sits just one point outside the Championship play-off places. With key players like Lewis Brunt, Andy Cannon, Danny Ward, Kieffer Moore, and Issa Kabore nearing a return from injury, and the January transfer window still open, Parkinson's side could further strengthen their squad.
What's next?
Wrexham's FA Cup journey continues in the fourth round, while Nottingham Forest must refocus on their Premier League survival bid. For Wrexham, the dream of reaching the top flight next season feels increasingly tangible, with fans and co-owner Ryan Reynolds-who watched the match alongside his mother-hoping the club's fairytale run continues.
