In a stunning upset, Crystal Palace claimed its first major trophy, defeating Manchester City 1-0 in the FA Cup final at Wembley Stadium on Saturday.
The victory marked a historic milestone for the South London club, which had never before won a major honor, while condemning Manchester City and manager Pep Guardiola to their first trophyless season since 2016-17.
The decisive moment came early in the 16th minute, as Crystal Palace executed a textbook counterattack under manager Oliver Glasner.
Jean-Philippe Mateta held up play at the halfway line, releasing full-back Daniel Muñoz on a surging run down the right. Muñoz’s precise low cross found Eberechi Eze, who swept the ball into the far corner, sparking wild celebrations among the Palace faithful.
Despite Manchester City’s dominance before and after the goal, their relentless pressure went unrewarded. A golden opportunity arose when Bernardo Silva won a penalty after a foul by Tyrick Mitchell, but Omar Marmoush’s spot kick was brilliantly saved by Palace goalkeeper Dean Henderson.
City’s missed chances, including several thwarted by Henderson’s heroics, proved costly as Palace’s resolute defense held firm.
The second half saw Manchester City desperately seeking an equalizer, but Palace’s dogged defending and Henderson’s inspired performance kept them at bay.
As City ran out of ideas, Palace clung on to secure a landmark victory. “It’s special,” said Eze, the match-winner, in a post-match interview with BBC Sport. “I don’t even know what to say.”
Entering as heavy underdogs against a Manchester City side that has won six Premier League titles since 2017-18, Palace defied the odds and made history.
The triumph not only delivered the club’s first major trophy but also earned them a place in European competition—Europa League next season for the first time ever.
Crystal Palace fans, celebrating long into the night, now look forward to continental adventures, their long wait for glory finally over.
