Wrexham’s FA Cup Triumph: A Historic Victory Over Nottingham Forest

Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson celebrated the club’s impressive FA Cup upset against Premier League side Nottingham Forest, expressing his joy for the presence of the Welsh club’s Hollywood owner, Ryan Reynolds, at the match.

Wrexham triumphed 4-3 in a penalty shootout after a gripping 3-3 draw, having initially led 2-0 and 3-1 during the game.

“I spoke with him before the game, and it was wonderful to see him here with his family,” Parkinson said in a news conference, referring to the “Deadpool” actor. “I believe Ryan’s mother was here for the first time tonight, which made the occasion even more special. I hope they enjoyed the evening. I’m sure they’ll be raising a few glasses of wine to celebrate on their flight back home tonight.”

Friday’s victory against last season’s FA Cup semifinalists adds another memorable chapter to Wrexham’s story, a club that was acquired in 2021 by Reynolds and fellow actor Rob McElhenney. The duo has guided Wrexham through a remarkable revival, leading to three consecutive promotions. Currently, the club sits ninth in the second-tier Championship, with this victory marking their fifth consecutive win across all competitions.

Wrexham has a rich history of FA Cup successes, having previously defeated notable teams like Arsenal, Newcastle United, and West Ham United. However, this win was particularly significant as it marked their first victory over top-tier opposition in the competition in 26 years.

“I always aim for us to perform well on these big occasions, and I believe we did just that,” Parkinson stated to ESPN. “We were unfortunate not to secure a win in normal time, and naturally, that took a toll on us. Entering extra time, there was a palpable acceptance in the stadium and among the players that we needed to regroup. Credit goes to the lads for their character; facing a Premier League team right after the Christmas period was a monumental effort from our side.”

Liberato Cacace and Oliver Rathbone netted goals within three minutes of each other in the first half, granting Wrexham a 2-0 lead at STōK Cae Ras. Nottingham Forest’s Igor Jesus pulled one back before Dominic Hyam restored Wrexham’s two-goal advantage.

However, Forest substitute Callum Hudson-Odoi brought the match into extra time with two exceptional goals, the second occurring in the 89th minute. Wrexham goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo emerged as the hero of the shootout, making crucial saves against Jesus and Omari Hutchinson.

“Before the match, the manager shared the club’s history with us, reminding us of our capability to compete against teams that are above us,” a jubilant Okonkwo remarked. “Winning this game was incredible. We need to relish this moment.”

The FA Cup commenced in August, featuring 446 clubs aspiring for a place in the prestigious final at Wembley Stadium; however, only teams from the top two tiers enter in the third round.