Carlos Miguel’s “Absolute Howler” as Exeter Stun Nottingham Forest in FA Cup Shock

Nottingham Forest goalkeeper Carlos Miguel was slammed for an “absolute howler” as Exeter City stunned the Premier League side with an early goal in their FA Cup fourth-round clash on February 11.

Exeter, the lowest-ranked side left in the competition, went into the tie as major underdogs. Sitting 18th in League One, just five points above relegation, they were expected to struggle against a Champions League-chasing Forest.

However, Gary Caldwell’s side came flying out of the blocks, taking a shock lead through Josh Magennis after a costly error from Miguel.

Carlos Miguel’s Error Gifts Exeter the Lead

The Nottingham Forest goalkeeper made a massive blunder, failing to catch a routine cross, dropping the ball directly into the path of Magennis, who slotted home from close range.

Former Tottenham defender Michael Dawson ripped into Miguel on Sky Sports News (8:06 PM GMT):

“Very, very good start from Exeter. Harper does brilliant down the left, then it goes down the right-hand side. I’m not too sure what the keeper’s doing here.”

“Carlos Miguel, I could have caught this! He doesn’t, he drops it, and Josh Magennis taps it in from two yards out. Absolute howler!”

Adding to the controversy, the goal had a potential offside call, but with VAR not in use in the FA Cup fourth round, the decision stood.

Forest Respond Quickly to Avoid Giant-Killing

Despite Miguel’s mistake, Nottingham Forest quickly responded, shutting down any chance of a giant-killing:

• 15′ | Goal | Ramon Sosa – The Paraguayan winger equalized just four minutes later, leveling the match.
• 37′ | Goal | Taiwo Awoniyi – Forest took the lead, with Ibrahim Sangare assisting for the second time in the match.

Although Exeter have struggled since selling star player Millenic Alli to Luton, Magennis has stepped up in the FA Cup, scoring four goals in four matches for the Grecians.

Nottingham Forest Chasing FA Cup Glory

Forest are on a historic run this season, currently sitting third in the Premier League with 47 points and on track for Champions League qualification.

• Their dominant 7-0 victory over Brighton on February 1 showcased their potential, with Chris Wood scoring a hat-trick and Morgan Gibbs-White running the show.
• Manager Nuno Espirito Santo has transformed the side, turning former squad players into Premier League stars, including Chris Wood, Anthony Elanga, and Callum Hudson-Odoi.

Forest haven’t lifted the FA Cup since 1959, but their resurgence under Nuno has reignited dreams of silverware.

However, with PSR (Profit and Sustainability Rules) concerns, they may be forced to sell key players in the summer, including Murillo.

What’s Next for Forest & Exeter?

• Nottingham Forest: They march into the FA Cup fifth round, with their Premier League focus now shifting towards securing a top-four finish.
• Exeter City: Despite a spirited performance, their FA Cup dream ends here, and they must now fight to avoid relegation in League One.

Final Verdict

While Exeter capitalized on Miguel’s error, Forest’s quality prevailed. With their Champions League dream alive, Nottingham Forest continue their best season in decades, hoping to end their long wait for a major trophy.

🔴 Full-Time Result: Nottingham Forest 2-1 Exeter City