Nottingham Forest Edge Past Exeter City in FA Cup Thriller 2025

Nottingham Forest Edge Past Exeter City in FA Cup Thriller

Nottingham Forest advanced to the fifth round of the FA Cup after a dramatic 2-2 draw against Exeter City, securing victory 4-2 in a penalty shootout. The fourth-round clash at St James Park on February 11, 2025, saw lower-league Exeter push their Premier League opponents to the limit in a gripping contest.

 

Match Summary

Exeter City, playing in England’s third tier, stunned Forest by taking an early lead in the 5th minute through a clinical finish from Josh Magennis. Nottingham Forest responded quickly, with Ramón Sosa equalizing in the 15th minute before Taiwo Awoniyi put the visitors ahead in the 37th minute. However, Exeter showed resilience, with Magennis once again finding the net early in the second half to make it 2-2.

 

As the match neared its conclusion, Exeter suffered a major setback when defender Ed Turns received a red card in the 87th minute for a high challenge. Despite playing with 10 men, Exeter held firm, forcing the game into extra time.

 

Awoniyi Injury and Shootout Drama

A moment of concern arose in stoppage time when Forest striker Taiwo Awoniyi suffered a serious injury following a collision with Exeter’s goalkeeper Joe Whitworth. Awoniyi was stretchered off after receiving medical attention on the pitch and was later diagnosed with a concussion and a broken nose.

 

With no further goals in extra time, the game was decided by a penalty shootout. Nottingham Forest capitalized on Exeter’s missed penalties, with Neco Williams converting the decisive spot-kick to clinch a 4-2 victory.

 

What’s Next?

Nottingham Forest will now face Ipswich Town in the FA Cup fifth round as they continue their campaign for silverware. Exeter, despite the loss, won admiration for their spirited performance against top-flight opposition.

 

Manager Reactions

Forest manager Nuno Espírito Santo praised his side’s resilience, stating, “Exeter made it very difficult for us, but we showed character to get through. We wish Awoniyi a speedy recovery.” Exeter boss Gary Caldwell expressed pride in his team’s display, adding, “We gave everything tonight. I couldn’t ask for more from the players.”

 

Player Performances and Key Stats

Despite being on the losing side, Exeter City’s Josh Magennis delivered an outstanding performance, scoring twice and proving to be a constant threat to Forest’s defense. Nottingham Forest’s goalkeeper, Matt Turner, played a crucial role in the shootout, making two key saves that ultimately secured his team’s passage to the next round.

 

Possession statistics favored Forest, who controlled 62% of the ball compared to Exeter’s 38%. The visitors also had more shots on target, registering 10 compared to Exeter’s 6. However, Exeter’s compact defensive structure and quick counterattacks made them formidable opponents throughout the game.

 

Fan Reactions and Social Media Buzz

Fans from both sides took to social media to express their emotions following the game. Nottingham Forest supporters praised their team’s fighting spirit, with many lauding Neco Williams for his composure during the decisive penalty. Exeter City fans, on the other hand, were proud of their team’s effort and voiced their frustration at the red card decision, which they felt was too harsh.

 

Looking Ahead

As Nottingham Forest prepares for their next FA Cup fixture against Ipswich Town, manager Nuno Espírito Santo will have to contend with the absence of Taiwo Awoniyi, whose injury may keep him sidelined for weeks. The team’s medical staff will continue to monitor his recovery process. Meanwhile, Exeter City will refocus their attention on their league campaign, aiming to build on the confidence gained from this strong performance against Premier League opposition.

 

With emotions running high after an unforgettable cup clash, both teams will take lessons from this match as they move forward in their respective competitions.