NOTTINGHAM, England — Nottingham Forest’s goalkeeper, Matz Sels, emerged as the match-winner by saving a decisive penalty, advancing his team past Ipswich Town into the FA Cup quarterfinals on Monday.
The match was locked at 1-1 following regulation and extra time, leading to a thrilling penalty shootout where the initial nine attempts were successfully converted.
Jack Taylor stepped up for Ipswich, and Sels dove to his left to block the shot, ensuring Forest a place in the last eight where they will face Brighton.
The encounter at City Ground was intensely competitive, reflecting less of the disparities in the teams’ standings within the Premier League.
Nottingham Forest, exceeding expectations this season, holds the third spot in the league, positioned above elite clubs like Chelsea, Manchester City, and Manchester United.
However, it was Ipswich, struggling near the bottom of the table, who struck first, with George Hirst heading in at the back post just eight minutes into the second half.
Forest responded with determination, equalizing when Ryan Yates met a perfect cross from Anthony Elanga and nodded the ball into the net.
A second potential goal from Yates was ruled out shortly thereafter, and Callum Hudson-Odoi came painfully close, hitting the bar with a long-distance strike with just seven minutes remaining.
Despite relentless efforts from both teams to secure victory, particularly during the thrilling extra-time exchanges, the match proceeded to penalties.
“It was the only penalty where I was in the right corner!” remarked Sels. “In a shootout, a goalkeeper becomes the hero. I’m delighted and eagerly anticipating the weekend now.”
