Arthur Okonkwo’s penalty shootout heroics causes FA Cup shock as Wrexham beat Nottingham Forest
Arthur Okonkwo was the Wrexham hero with stops from Igor Jesus and Omari Hutchinson giving them a 4-3 victory on spot-kicks after Josh Windass, Callum Doyle, George Thomason and Jay Rodriguez had converted from the spot.
Mike Jones9 January 2026 22:42
Wrexham goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo speaking to TNT Sports:
“Thankfully we have good analysis people to help us out. I had a look at it before the game so really happy to make the two saves and help us win the game.
“The manager spoke to us before the game, told us about the history of the club and how we’re able to beat teams who are way above us.
“It was amazing to win the game in the end. We just have to enjoy the moment.”
Mike Jones9 January 2026 22:31
Oxford United have reached the FA Cup fourth round for the first time since 2019-20.
They defeated MK Dons in a penalty shootout as well.
Mike Jones9 January 2026 22:25
Wrexham reach fourth round after penalty shootout
(Martin Rickett/PA Wire)
(Nick Potts/PA Wire)
Mike Jones9 January 2026 22:25
Elsewhwere, Port Vale have reached the FA Cup fourth round for just the third time this century, previously doing so in 2005-06 and 2013-14.
Mike Jones9 January 2026 22:21
Wrexham reach fourth round after penalty shootout
Wrexham held their nerve through a penalty shootout to reach the fourth round of the FA Cup after an incredible tie against Nottingham Forest.
The hosts took control of the match with two goals in the first half, the first from Liverato Cacace and the second from Ollie Rathbone, as they attempted to inflict defeat on their Premier League opponents.
Sean Dyche made changes at the break and instilled a new belief in Forest who pulled a goal back through Igor Jesus only for Dominic Hyam to restore Wrexham’s two-goal cushion.
Callum Hudson-Odoi came off the bench and scored a brace, including a dramatic late equaliser, to force the match into extra-time and penalties.
The final word went to Arthur Okonkwo though as the Wrexham goalkeeper saved two penalties including the decisive one to ensure the Red Dragons advance to the next round.
Mike Jones9 January 2026 22:20
He’s only 21-year-old and drills the penalty to Okonkwo’s left.
The goalkeeper chooses the correct way and keeps it out!
Wrexham are through to the fourth round. They’ve beaten Nottingham Forest on penalties!
Mike Jones9 January 2026 22:13
Calm as you like from Jay Rodriguez who slots it into the bottom right corner.
Mike Jones9 January 2026 22:12
Here comes Neco Williams for Forest.
He slots the shot underneath Okonkwo and Forest level.
Mike Jones9 January 2026 22:11
George Thomason came off the bench for Wrexham and he does his job!
Sels gets his hand to the shot but there’s too much power and Wrexham go ahead again.
Mike Jones9 January 2026 22:11