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Forest will give it a 'real go' in FA Cup, promises Nuno

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Nottingham Forest will "give it a real go" in the FA Cup after reaching the quarter-finals with Monday's penalty shoot-out win over Ipswich Town, says Nuno Espirito Santo.

Matz Sels kept out Jack Taylor's effort after Forest converted all five of their kicks at the City Ground, ensuring the hosts advanced with a 5-4 shoot-out win following a 1-1 draw.  

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Forest have now reached the FA Cup quarter-finals in two of the last four seasons, also doing so in 2021-22 only to lose to eventual winners Liverpool.

They had reached the last eight just once in the previous 29 campaigns, while they last advanced beyond that stage when finishing as runners-up to Tottenham in 1990-91.

Forest's only two FA Cup triumphs came in 1897-98 and 1958-59, and despite having plenty to play for in the Premier League as they hunt European qualification, Nuno will continue to take the competition seriously.

"I'm really happy. We have so many hopes and in the FA Cup we want to go as far as we can. In penalties, the emotions are always high," he told BBC Sport.

"We proceed on our journey together. It's a good moment and it's important for the club to give it a real go. 

"Now we have to focus on the Premier League, but the FA Cup is always going to be on our minds."

Forest were also taken to penalties by third-tier Exeter City in the fourth round, triumphing 4-2.

They have won all four of their shoot-outs in the FA Cup, with only Macclesfield Town and Stevenage (both 5/5) boasting better 100% records in the competition proper.

"For every FA Cup draw we have to practice penalties, and we kept the same order as Exeter. We did really well and they were good penalties," Nuno said.

"I believe it makes up part of the game preparations, in the same way as the goalkeeper has to practice and get as much information as possible. It's dedication.

"It's not nice at all – anxiety, nervousness... it's a mix of emotions. I try not to watch and just wait for the noise!"

Forest will visit Brighton – who they recently beat 7-0 in the Premier League – in the quarter-finals at the end of this month.

In the other last-eight ties, Fulham will host Crystal Palace, Aston Villa go to Preston North End and Bournemouth face Manchester City.

Upcoming Matches

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English FA Cup
Saturday, 10 Jan
Round 3
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