The Case for Wrexham: The STōK Cae Ras will be bouncing, and Wrexham have the form to back up the noise. They have won four of their last six matches and possess a potent aerial weapon in Kieffer Moore, who wins 7.1 aerial duels per game. Against a Forest side rated “weak” at defending aerial balls and set-pieces, Wrexham have a clear route to goal. Their ability to score in six straight games suggests they will trouble their Premier League visitors.

The Case for Nottingham Forest: Forest arrive as the superior side on paper, fresh off a Premier League win. Their ability to control games in the opposition half and attack down the wings aligns well against Wrexham’s defensive vulnerabilities. With Morgan Gibbs-White pulling the strings, Forest have the quality to punish Wrexham’s tendency to concede (five times in their last six games). However, their own defensive record—conceding nine in six—leaves the door open for an upset.

The Verdict: This has all the ingredients of a classic FA Cup tie: a raucous home crowd, a physical mismatch in the air, and two leaky defenses. While Forest have the quality, Wrexham have the momentum and specific tactical advantages that could level the playing field.