WREXHAM, Wales :In one of the most dramatic FA Cup nights in recent memory, Wrexham AFC pulled off a stunning upset against Premier League side Nottingham Forest, triumphing 4–3 on penalties after a thrilling 3–3 draw at the Racecourse Ground on Friday, January 9, 2026. The victory sends the Welsh club into the fourth round of the FA Cup, marking their first win over a top-flight opponent in 26 years, and it was witnessed live by Hollywood co-owner Ryan Reynolds.
A Fairytale FA Cup Night Comes to Life
The third-round tussle delivered breathtaking drama from start to finish. Wrexham raced into a commanding lead with goals from Liberato Cacace (37′) and Oliver Rathbone (40′), giving the Championship outfit a dream first half against their illustrious opponents.
Nottingham Forest refused to wilt, however. They fought back in the second half with goals from Igor Jesus (64′) and a brace from Callum Hudson-Odoi (76′, 89′), the latter netting a dramatic late equaliser to force extra time.
When the extra 30 minutes failed to produce a winner, the tie headed into penalties, where Wrexham goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo rose to the occasion. His key saves, including a decisive stop from Forest’s Omari Hutchinson, sealed the victory and sent supporters into jubilation.
Ryan Reynolds: From the Red Carpet to Racecourse Ground Heroics
A central figure in Wrexham’s remarkable journey, Ryan Reynolds was at the stadium, enthusiastically cheering on the Red Dragons and engaging with fans before kickoff. The Hollywood actor, who co-owns the club alongside Rob McElhenney, was seen signing autographs and rallying support.
Reynolds’ presence added sparkle to an already electric atmosphere, with many supporters hailing the moment as ‘special’, not only for the magnitude of the result but also for the cultural impact it brings to a community club now thrust firmly into the international spotlight.
Historic Triumph for an Underdog Club
Wrexham’s dramatic success underlines the evolution of the club since its high-profile takeover in 2021. From life in the lower tiers of English football to challenging Premier League giants in the FA Cup, the journey has captured global attention, largely fuelled by the FX docuseries Welcome to Wrexham.
Manager Phil Parkinson described the victory as “truly special,” commending his players for their resilience and character on a night when the stakes could not have been higher. Parkinson also noted the personal importance of having the club’s celebrity owners in attendance to witness the club’s giant-killing moment.
“I had a chat with him before the game, and it was great to see him over here with his family,” Parkinson said, referring to Ryan Reynolds. “It’s a night that will live long in our memories.”
Reaction and Impact Across Football Circles
Football pundits and fans alike hailed the encounter as an “instant classic,” with commentators praising Wrexham’s fearless attacking display and Nottingham Forest’s late fightback, a testament to the enduring magic of the FA Cup.
Analysis from global news outlets echoed the sentiment, highlighting how Wrexham’s penalty victory, their first against top-flight opposition since December 1999, has electrified the FA Cup narrative this season.
On social media platforms, supporters posted clips of celebrations, the penalty shootout drama, and Reynolds’ animated reactions, all contributing to a viral highlight reel that has resonated far beyond Welsh football. Fans from Kenya to Korea shared in the excitement, reflecting the global reach Wrexham’s story now garners.
What’s Next for Wrexham?
With the fourth round of the FA Cup on the horizon, Wrexham will aim to carry forward this momentum. Their Championship season,combined with this historic cup run,positions them as one of English football’s most intriguing underdog stories.
Despite Nottingham Forest’s exit, Forest boss Sean Dyche took responsibility for his team’s early departure, admitting that squad rotation may have cost them crucial cohesion early in the match.
Why This Matters to Kenyan Football Fans
For Kenyan football enthusiasts, stories like Wrexham’s resonate deeply, an underdog overcoming long odds, backed by global personalities and driven by community passion. Just as Kenyan clubs strive to make their mark on continental competitions, Wrexham’s FA Cup journey is a reminder that belief, unity, and resilience can lead to unforgettable footballing moments.
