Wrexham is set to host Nottingham Forest in a highly anticipated FA Cup third-round clash on January 9, 2026. This marks the first meeting between the two clubs since 1993.
Wrexham enters the match in strong form, having won their last four games and moved within a point of the Championship play-off spots. Their recent victories include a 2-1 win against Derby County on January 4th and another 2-1 triumph over Preston North End on December 30th. However, they are dealing with a significant number of injuries, with key players like Andy Cannon, Danny Ward, Aaron James, Lewis Brunt, Ryan Hardie, Elliot Lee, and Kieffer Moore all ruled out.
Nottingham Forest, currently sitting just above the Premier League relegation zone, secured a 2-1 victory over West Ham United on January 6th, which ended a four-game losing streak. Manager Sean Dyche may use his squad to avoid injuries, as avoiding relegation is their main priority.
The match is scheduled for a 7:30 PM GMT kick-off at the STōK Cae Ras. Paul Tierney will be the referee, assisted by Stuart Burt and James Mainwaring, with Stuart Attwell as the fourth official. There will be no VAR for this fixture.
Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson might stick with the same lineup that beat Derby County, despite being prone to rotation. Issa Kabore could be on the bench after returning from the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Nottingham Forest may rest Callum Hudson-Odoi and Morgan Gibbs-White, potentially giving rare starts to Dilane Bakwa and James McAtee. Taiwo Awoniyi may lead the line, with Igor Jesus possibly rested.
The weather could be a factor, as an amber snow warning was issued for the Wrexham area. Nottingham Forest has advised fans to allow extra travel time and stay updated with Met Office warnings. A yellow ice warning is in effect until midday on Saturday. Despite the weather concerns, the match is still scheduled to proceed.
Bookmakers are offering attractive odds on a Wrexham/Draw double chance, given Wrexham's strong form and Nottingham Forest's struggles. Both teams scoring is also considered a likely outcome. Predicted lineups include Okonkwo in goal for Wrexham, with Cleworth, Hyam, and Doyle in defense; James and Sheaf in midfield; and Longman, Windass, Broadhead, Thomason, and Smith in attack. Nottingham Forest's potential lineup changes include Nicolo Savona, Morato, and Oleksandr Zinchenko in defense, and Douglas Luiz partnering Nicolas Dominguez in midfield.
This FA Cup tie marks Wrexham's first encounter with Premier League opposition since 1992, adding extra significance to the match for the Welsh side.
