Championship side Wrexham pulled off one of the FA Cup’s biggest upsets in years, knocking Premier League outfit Nottingham Forest out of the 2025‑26 Emirates FA Cup third round after a thrilling 3–3 draw and a dramatic penalty shootout on Friday. Nigeria goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo was the standout figure, saving two penalties to secure Wrexham’s 4–3 shootout victory and a place in the Fourth Round.
The match at STōK Cae Ras was an instant classic: Wrexham raced into a 2–0 lead by halftime thanks to early goals from Liberato Cacace and Ollie Rathbone, but Forest fought back strongly in the second half to level the score and force extra time.
Forest substitute Callum Hudson‑Odoi scored twice, including a late equalizer in the 89th minute, ensuring the tie was deadlocked at 3–3 after extra time and setting up a tense penalty shootout.
In the shootout, Okonkwo’s heroics proved decisive. The Nigerian stopper thwarted spot kicks from Igor Jesus and Omari Hutchinson, helping Wrexham hold on for a memorable win.
The victory was a historic moment for Wrexham, co‑owned by Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, marking the club’s first FA Cup triumph over top‑flight opposition in 26 years and extending their spirited cup run.
Forest manager Sean Dyche had rotated his squad with several changes from the Premier League fixture earlier in the week, but the decision backfired as his side suffered two-goal caution inside 40 minutes of play.
Wrexham now progress to the Fourth Round of the FA Cup, where they will face a yet‑to‑be‑determined opponent, celebrating a thrilling victory propelled by Okonkwo’s penalty‑saving heroics.
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