Forest knock Brighton out on penalties to book FA Cup semi final spot

BRIGHTON, England - Nottingham Forest secured a place in the FA Cup semi-finals by beating Brighton and Hove Albion 4-3 in a penalty shootout when Ryan Yates smashed home the winner after the game finished goalless following extra time.

Forest keeper Matz Sels saved Jack Hinshelwoods low shot towards the bottom corner before keeping out Diego Gomezs attempt into the middle of the goal either side of the visitors missed effort from Neco Williams that flew over the bar.

Twice winners Forest, who won the trophy in 1898 and 1959, last reached the final in 1991 and had not made the semis since.

Forest, third in the Premier League, have needed penalties to decide their last three FA Cup ties, including against third-tier Exeter City and fellow Premier League club Ipswich Town.

The fans created a lively atmosphere at the Amex Stadium but there was little spark on the pitch in the first half.

Brightons Bart Verbruggen made a superb save after 15 minutes to keep out Taiwo Awoniyis shot from a tight angle by blocking it with his foot in the games first real chance.

Awoniyi came in to lead Forests attack in place of their injured top scorer Chris Wood.

Brightons Yasin Ayari sent a chance just wide from distance shortly after and Carlos Baleba fired just past the post from the edge of the area as the hosts stepped up the tempo.

They sustained the pressure after the break and Georginio Rutter was inches from scoring when he swivelled and sent his effort over the bar from close range.

VAR review

The game could have turned after the hour mark when Forest thought they were awarded a penalty after Brighton forward Kaoru Mitomas challenge on Elliot Anderson. However, a VAR review showed there was no foul committed.