On March 3, 2025, Nottingham Forest defeated Ipswich Town in a penalty shootout to advance to the quarterfinals of the FA Cup in an exciting fifth-round match.  

Match Summary

Both teams played sparingly in the first half of the City Ground match, which ended without a goal. George Hirst of Ipswich broke the tie in the second half with a header, giving the visitors a 1-0 lead.

In response, Nottingham Forest stepped up their game, and Ryan Yates equalized after Anthony Elanga’s cross was netted. At the end of regular time, the score was still 1-1 despite the efforts of both teams.

Due to a lack of opportunities in extra time, the winner was decided by a penalty shootout. Both teams scored their first penalties with precision. The pivotal moment occurred when Jack Taylor’s penalty was saved by Nottingham Forest’s goalkeeper, Matz Sels, giving Forest a 5–4 shootout victory.

Key Performances

• Matz Sels: With the crucial stop in the penalty shootout, the Belgian goalkeeper played a key role in Forest’s rise. His heroics were reminiscent of his performance in the previous round against Exeter City, where he also saved a decisive penalty. 
  
• Ryan Yates: The midfielder showcased his offensive capabilities by netting the equalizer and consistently pressuring Ipswich’s defense.
  
• George Hirst: Despite the loss, Hirst’s goal highlighted his aerial prowess and posed challenges for Forest’s defense throughout the match.
  

Managerial Insights

Nuno Espírito Santo, the manager of Nottingham Forest, was proud with his team’s tenacity and will. He praised Sels’ crucial contribution and recognized the teamwork that brought about the triumph.

Kieran McKenna, the manager of Ipswich, on the other hand, praised his team’s performance but grieved the close loss that forced them out of the competition.  

Looking Ahead

For for the second time in 29 years, Nottingham Forest advances to the FA Cup quarterfinals with this victory. Their forthcoming matchup with Brighton & Hove Albion, whom they recently thrashed 7-0, will provide an interesting storyline.

In order to keep up the enthusiasm from their cup victory, Forest will welcome Manchester City in their upcoming Premier League game. In the meanwhile, Ipswich Town will concentrate on their league campaign in an effort to move up the table and stay out of relegation.

Fans are still enthralled with Nottingham Forest’s FA Cup trip, as shown by their recent performances, which combine skill, strategy, and perseverance. Supporters look forward to the difficulties and victories that lie ahead as they progress.