Crystal Palace makes history: Beats Manchester City 1-0 to win first FA Cup title
A historic 1–0 victory at Wembley sees Crystal Palace secure their first-ever major trophy, the FA Cup ending Manchester City’s season without silverware.
Crystal Palace made history on Saturday by winning their first major trophy, defeating Manchester City 1–0 in the FA Cup final at Wembley Stadium. The London club, founded in 1905, had never won a significant title in its 120-year existence — until now. Thousands of Palace supporters witnessed an emotional, landmark moment as their team overcame one of the most dominant sides in English football.
The final’s lone goal came courtesy of Eberechi Eze, who scored with an acrobatic volley following a swift counterattack. On the other end, goalkeeper Dean Henderson delivered a heroic performance, denying City on several occasions, including a penalty save. Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola, visibly frustrated after the loss, ends a season without a trophy for only the second time in his managerial career.
A game of contrasts: City’s experience vs. Palace’s determination
The match began with Manchester City on the front foot, putting pressure on Crystal Palace’s defense in the early minutes. Henderson had to make two key saves to keep the score level. But Palace struck on the counter, with Jean-Philippe Mateta setting up a blazing run by Colombian full-back Daniel Muñoz. His pinpoint cross found Eze, who leapt ahead of Manuel Akanji and volleyed the ball past Stefan Ortega to give Palace the lead.
Minutes later, a similar play nearly led to a second goal, but Ismaila Sarr’s shot was saved by Ortega. City had a chance to equalize when Tyrick Mitchell committed a foul on Bernardo Silva inside the box. In a surprising twist, Erling Haaland handed the penalty duties to Omar Marmoush, whose shot was stopped by Henderson. Haaland’s follow-up was also denied, highlighting the goalkeeper’s standout performance.
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A relentless City falls short again
The second half followed a familiar pattern: Manchester City controlling possession while Palace threatened on the break. City winger Jérémy Doku continuously challenged the defense but found no way past Henderson. Palace nearly doubled their lead when Muñoz scored from a rebound, but the goal was ruled out for offside due to Sarr interfering with the goalkeeper’s vision.
As the clock ticked down, Guardiola’s side continued to push forward. City substitute Claudio Echeverri had a late chance, but once again, Henderson stood tall. Despite City’s dominance in possession and opportunities, they couldn’t break through a determined Palace side playing with heart and resilience.
