In one of the most exhilarating ties of the 2025-26 Emirates FA Cup Third Round, Wrexham AFC staged a dramatic comeback and secured a famous victory over Nottingham Forest after an unforgettable battle at the Racecourse Ground. What unfolded was a thrilling cup classic that will be remembered by fans of both sides.
🎯 Final Score & Outcome
- Wrexham 3–3 Nottingham Forest (after extra time)
- Wrexham win 4–3 on penalties
Wrexham stunned their Premier League opponents to advance to the FA Cup Fourth Round in a match filled with drama, goals, and late twists.
📍 Match Summary
This FA Cup third-round showdown saw Championship side Wrexham put on a spirited performance against Premier League Nottingham Forest.
First Half
- Liberato Cacace opened the scoring for Wrexham in the 37th minute.
- Ollie Rathbone doubled the lead shortly after, giving the hosts a commanding 2-0 advantage at halftime.
Second Half
- Igor Jesus pulled one back for Forest with a towering header.
- Dominic Hyam restored Wrexham’s two-goal cushion, making it 3-1.
- Callum Hudson-Odoi inspired a stirring comeback, scoring twice — including a late equalizer to force extra time.
🎉 Extra Time & Penalty Shootout
Despite chances for both sides during extra time, neither could find a winner — sending the tie to penalties.
In the shootout, Wrexham held their nerve:
✔️ Wrexham converted crucial spot-kicks
✔️ Nottingham Forest missed key attempts
✔️ Goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo emerged as the hero with vital saves to clinch the victory.
⭐ Key Performers
Wrexham
- Arthur Okonkwo (GK) – Final hero with crucial saves in the shootout.
- Liberato Cacace & Ollie Rathbone – Sparked Wrexham’s attacking edge.
- Dominic Hyam – Led from the back and scored.
Nottingham Forest
- Callum Hudson-Odoi – Key figure in Forest’s comeback with two goals.
- Igor Jesus – Threatened with a key header.
📊 Tactical Insights
- Wrexham showed resilience, strong counter-attacking play, and tactical discipline throughout the match.
- Forest, despite coming from behind twice, were unable to maintain momentum and succumbed in penalties, with squad rotation and late subs ultimately falling short.
📈 What This Means
- Wrexham moves into the FA Cup Fourth Round, marking a huge cup upset and one of the club’s most memorable victories over Premier League opposition in over two decades.
- Nottingham Forest exit the competition, reflecting the unpredictable magic of the FA Cup where underdogs can triumph.
