Wrexham pulled off a dramatic FA Cup giant-killing against Nottingham Forest in front of owner Ryan Reynolds, while heavy snow in Germany forced the postponement of several Bundesliga fixtures.
Wrexham AFC secured a historic FA Cup upset on Friday, defeating Premier League side Nottingham Forest 4-3 on penalties after a thrilling 3-3 draw.
Playing in front of co-owner Ryan Reynolds, the League One side led 3-1 before a late brace from Callum Hudson-Odoi forced extra time.
Manager Phil Parkinson hailed the victory as “special,” marking the first time the club has eliminated top-tier opposition in the competition in 26 years.
The match at STōK Cae Ras saw Wrexham display immense resilience against their top-flight opponents.
After Forest clawed back to level the score in the 89th minute, goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo became the hero by saving two penalties in the shootout.
Parkinson praised his squad’s character, noting, “after the Christmas period to go into extra time against a Premier League team is one almighty effort, from both sides, but from us in particular.”
Meanwhile, severe winter weather disrupted European football as heavy snow forced the postponement of two Bundesliga matches in Germany.
St. Pauli’s clash with RB Leipzig and Werder Bremen’s game against Hoffenheim were called off due to safety concerns regarding stadium roofs and spectator travel.
German officials cited the need to “ease the burden on emergency services” as transport networks across northern and eastern Germany struggled under significant snowdrifts and ice.