Eddie Howe made six changes from the 1-1 draw at AFC Bournemouth on Sunday. Sandro Tonali was handed his first start since October after his 10 month ban expired this week.
The Italian replaced Bruno Guimaraes in the starting XI, lining up in a midfield three of Joelinton and Joe Willock, who came in for Sean Longstaff. The other changes saw Kieran Trippier, Lewis Hall, Miguel Almiron and Harvey Barnes selected ahead of Tino Livramento, Lloyd Kelly, Jacob Murphy and Anthony Gordon.
Newcastle took the lead just 18 seconds. A touch by Almiron set Alexander Isak away, whose shot was saved by followed up by Willock. It was the midfielder’s first competitive start since April and sadly, he had to be replaced on the quarter-hour mark because of a thigh injury.
United struggled after Willock’s withdrawal and Forest deservedly levelled in the 50th minute when Jota Silva cannoned a shot past Nick Pope from a long throw that wasn’t dealt with.
The introduction of Anthony Gordon, Tino Livramento and Sean Longstaff helped Newcastle regain a foothold. They had chances to win it in normal - and probably should have - but on it went to penalties.
Forest were handed the initiative when Carlos Miguel saved Joelinton’s spot-kick but things were levelled up when Ibrahim Sangare hit the crossbar. Taiwo Awoniyi then blazed his effort over, allowing Sean Longstaff to net the decisive kick.
Our writer Jordan Cronin was at the City Ground and - and here are his Newcastle United player ratings:
9. Miguel Almiron - 7
Looked sharp in the first-half after playing a role in the opener before later seeing a shot saved. Covered well defensively. | Getty Images
10. Harvey Barnes - 6
Looked lively in parts after setting up chances for Almiron and Joelinton but was too one dimensional. Became more involved after switching over to the right. | Getty Images
11. Alexander Isak - 6
Wasn't at his sharpest but didn't stop working for his team. Cooly converted in the shootout. | Getty Images
12. Bruno Guimaraes (on for Willock, 15) - 6
Managed to make an impact from an hour onwards. Another player who scored in the shootout. | Getty Images