Wrexham vs Nottingham Forest Match Recap - Jan 9, 2026

Wrexham Stuns Nottingham Forest in FA Cup Thriller, Advances on Penalties

Wrexham's resilience shone through as they edged Nottingham Forest 4-3 in a penalty shootout after a gripping 3-3 draw in the FA Cup. This result marks a significant moment for Wrexham, who have been riding a wave of momentum in recent weeks, while Nottingham continues to struggle under pressure.

Wrexham's recent form has been nothing short of impressive, with three wins in their last five matches leading up to this fixture. The team has transformed its attacking prowess, averaging 1.4 expected goals (xG) over their last five games. This uptick in offensive output was evident against Nottingham, where they managed to keep pace with a Premier League side despite being outshot overall. The home side's ability to capitalize on set pieces and counter-attacks proved crucial, with Cacace and Rathbone both finding the net early on, showcasing their knack for seizing opportunities.

Nottingham Forest's recent performances tell a different story. With three consecutive league defeats prior to this match, the pressure was mounting on Coach Sean Dyche and his squad. Despite dominating possession with 61% and leading in total shots (11 to Wrexham's 8), they struggled to convert chances into goals. The team's inability to maintain composure under pressure was highlighted by their defensive lapses, allowing Wrexham to equalize twice after taking the lead. This inconsistency has plagued Nottingham throughout the season, as they have averaged below 1 xG in their last five matches, indicating a lack of clinical finishing.

The match showcased the contrasting styles of both teams. Wrexham's direct approach, spearheaded by forwards like Broadhead and Smith, allowed them to exploit Nottingham's shaky defense effectively. Their ability to create space and capitalize on defensive errors was evident, particularly when Hyam scored to level the match at 3-3 late in the second half. This resilience is a hallmark of Wrexham's recent performances, where they have shown an unwavering spirit even when faced with adversity.

Nottingham's struggles were compounded by the performance of key players. Gibbs-White, who had been pivotal in their previous victories, failed to make a significant impact against Wrexham. His inability to find rhythm has mirrored the team's overall struggles, as they have often relied too heavily on individual brilliance rather than cohesive team play. The absence of a consistent goal scorer has left Nottingham vulnerable, as evidenced by their inability to close out matches despite having more shots and possession.

The penalty shootout further emphasized the psychological battle at play. Wrexham displayed remarkable composure under pressure, converting all four of their penalties. In contrast, Nottingham faltered with Hudson-Odoi missing a crucial spot-kick that could have kept them in the competition. This moment encapsulated Nottingham's recent woes; despite having the talent and pedigree, they have struggled to perform when it matters most.

Wrexham's victory not only secures their place in the next round but also serves as a statement of intent. Their recent form suggests they are not merely participants in this tournament but serious contenders capable of challenging higher-ranked teams. The confidence gained from this match could propel them further in both the FA Cup and their Championship campaign.

For Nottingham Forest, this defeat raises questions about their direction moving forward. With mounting pressure from fans and pundits alike, Dyche must find a way to instill confidence in his players and rectify the defensive frailties that have become all too apparent. The upcoming fixtures will be critical for them as they seek to regain momentum and avoid slipping further down the Premier League table.

In summary, Wrexham's thrilling victory over Nottingham Forest highlights their resurgence as a formidable force in English football. Their ability to rise to the occasion against a struggling Premier League side speaks volumes about their character and determination. As for Nottingham, this match serves as a wake-up call; they must regroup quickly if they hope to turn their season around before it's too late.