​Nottingham Forest secured a dramatic FA Cup quarter-final berth, edging out Ipswich Town in the penalty shootout

Nottingham Forest secured a dramatic FA Cup quarter-final berth, edging out Ipswich Town in a tense penalty shootout. Matz Sels emerged as the hero, denying Jack Taylor's crucial spot-kick, propelling Forest to a 5-4 victory after a 1-1 deadlock forced extra time. Ryan Yates had earlier cancelled out George Hirst's opener for Ipswich, igniting a previously subdued contest.  

The match, attended by England manager Thomas Tuchel, saw limited action until the second half. Taylor's penalty miss echoed a similar incident from Ipswich's Carabao Cup exit earlier in the season. Forest, having already triumphed in a shootout against Exeter in the previous round, continued their impressive cup run.

Their focus now shifts to the Premier League, where they aim to solidify their Champions League qualification hopes. Nuno Espirito Santo's side prepares to host Manchester City in a pivotal clash. "We practice penalties for every FA Cup draw," Santo stated, emphasizing their dedication. He acknowledged the nerve-wracking nature of shootouts, opting to rely on the crowd's reaction.  

While Champions League qualification remains a priority, the FA Cup offers Forest a chance to secure their first trophy since 1959. Despite Ipswich's struggles in the league, they initially took the lead through Hirst's header, sparking the game to life. However, Yates quickly responded with a header of his own, leveling the score. Forest pressed for a winner, with Callum Hudson-Odoi hitting the woodwork, but the match proceeded to extra time.

Sels' decisive save ultimately sealed Forest's victory, setting up a quarter-final encounter with Brighton.