The journey of Nottingham Forest over the past year has been nothing short of extraordinary. In March 2024, they were barely clinging to their Premier League status after a points deduction and had already exited both domestic cup competitions. Fast forward to today, and the team is not only excelling in the league but also advancing to their first FA Cup semi-final in three decades. This achievement comes courtesy of a dramatic penalty shootout victory against Brighton at the Amex Stadium. Goalkeeper Matz Sels played a pivotal role with two crucial saves, keeping Forest’s dreams alive for their first FA Cup title since 1959. Moreover, their third-place standing in the Premier League positions them favorably for Champions League qualification next season.

Penalty shootouts have become a hallmark of Nottingham Forest's campaign this season. After a straightforward win in the third round, Nuno Espirito Santo's squad relied on spot-kicks to triumph over Exeter City from League One and Ipswich Town, another Premier League contender. The latest encounter against Brighton was no exception, with the game ending in a stalemate due to a lack of clear opportunities. Sels' decisive saves from Jack Hinshelwood and Diego Gomez showcased his brilliance under pressure. Reflecting on his performance, the Belgian goalkeeper emphasized the importance of luck alongside skill in such high-stakes moments.

Sels’ contributions extend beyond this match; he was instrumental in Forest's previous shootouts as well, making critical stops against Exeter and Ipswich. His consistent performance earned praise from coach Nuno, who highlighted the goalkeeper's reliability. Captain Ryan Yates sealed the deal with a winning penalty, expressing relief and gratitude for Sels' efforts that propelled the team toward Wembley. This marks a historic achievement for Forest, becoming the first team to secure three consecutive shootout victories in a single FA Cup season.

International travel appeared to impact both teams during this fixture. Returning from an international break, players seemed fatigued, affecting their performance. Gary Lineker, former England striker, noted the need for football authorities to address the issue of player welfare and its implications for fans expecting top-tier performances. Nuno Espirito Santo's decision to rest key attackers like Callum Hudson-Odoi and Anthony Elanga raised eyebrows before the match. However, despite entering late into the game, Hudson-Odoi contributed significantly by scoring one of Forest’s penalties. Former Manchester United forward Wayne Rooney acknowledged Nuno’s tactical acumen, crediting him for successfully navigating through the challenges.

As Nottingham Forest continues their ascent, the upcoming Premier League clash against Manchester United presents another opportunity to strengthen their position in the top four. Their remarkable resurgence serves as a testament to the team's resilience and strategic prowess, promising exciting prospects ahead.