In March 2024, Nottingham Forest found themselves in a difficult position. A points deduction had pushed them dangerously close to the Premier League relegation zone. Their hopes of domestic cup success had already ended, and another grueling battle for survival seemed inevitable.
Fast forward to March 2025, and the picture is completely different. Forest now sit near the top of the Premier League table and have reached the FA Cup semi-finals after a dramatic win over Brighton. Their stunning turnaround has given fans hope for Champions League football next season and their first FA Cup trophy since 1959.
FA Cup Glory: Forest Edge Brighton in Shootout Thriller
Nottingham Forest secured their place at Wembley after defeating Brighton in a tense penalty shootout at the Amex Stadium. Goalkeeper Matz Sels emerged as the hero, making two crucial saves to keep Forest’s cup dreams alive.
The match itself lacked attacking flair, with both teams struggling to create clear chances. Fatigue from the international break seemed to affect the players, leading to a game dominated by midfield battles and cautious play. When the final whistle blew, neither side had managed to break the deadlock, sending the game to penalties.
Sels saved spot-kicks from Jack Hinshelwood and Diego Gomez, setting up Ryan Yates to score the winning penalty. The Forest captain remained calm under pressure and slotted home the decisive kick.
“It’s been an incredible season so far,” said Yates after the game. “The fans have been amazing, and we’re giving them another unforgettable trip to Wembley. Last time we played there, we earned promotion. Now, we’re chasing something even bigger.”
Shootout Success Becomes a Pattern
Penalty shootouts have been a major part of Forest’s FA Cup run this season. After beating Luton 2-0 in the third round, they faced back-to-back shootouts against Exeter City and Ipswich Town. Each time, Sels delivered under pressure, and his heroics continued against Brighton.
“Penalty shootouts always involve some luck, but I’m incredibly proud,” said Sels after the match. The Belgian goalkeeper has now kept 12 clean sheets in the league and has played a vital role in every shootout victory.
“He stepped up again,” said Forest manager Nuno Espírito Santo. “Three shootouts, and Matz has been the difference every time. He deserves a huge amount of credit.”
Forest became the first club in FA Cup history to win three penalty shootouts in a single season. Their resilience and composure in high-pressure moments have set them apart from their rivals.
International Break Leaves Players Exhausted
The match came just days after a long international break, leaving both teams struggling for energy. Brighton’s players traveled a combined 86,208 miles, while Forest’s squad covered 83,054 miles. The effects were visible, with misplaced passes and a slow tempo throughout the game.
Former England striker Gary Lineker highlighted the issue, saying, “Football needs to address this. Players return exhausted, and it affects the quality of matches. Fans don’t get to see football played at full intensity.”
Nuno made a bold decision to rest attackers Callum Hudson-Odoi and Anthony Elanga, with Chris Wood unavailable. It was a move that suggested he had an eye on Tuesday’s crucial league match against Manchester United.
Both players came on in the second half but made little impact. However, Hudson-Odoi stepped up in the shootout and converted his penalty.
“You have to applaud Nuno,” said former Manchester United forward Wayne Rooney. “People questioned his choices, but in the end, his plan worked perfectly.”
Forest’s Rise: From Relegation Fears to Champions League Aspirations
Nottingham Forest’s transformation over the past year has been remarkable. Just a season ago, they were battling to avoid relegation. Now, they are on course for a top-four finish and a return to European football after 28 years.
The team currently sits third in the Premier League standings, ahead of some of England’s biggest clubs. Their success is built on a solid defensive foundation, key performances from new signings, and a manager who has instilled belief in his squad.
With an FA Cup semi-final on the horizon and a real chance of qualifying for the Champions League, Forest fans have every reason to dream. Their next challenge is a crucial league match against Manchester United, a fixture that could determine their top-four fate.
“We have to stay focused,” said Yates. “Every game is massive now, and we’re ready to give everything for this club.”
Forest’s remarkable season continues, and their story is far from over. With Wembley awaiting and Champions League football within reach, they have the chance to make history.
For more updates on Nottingham Forest’s journey, visit New York Mirror.
