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Date: 18-may-2025 | By: Nuztrend Team
In one of the most memorable upsets in modern English football, Crystal Palace defeated Manchester City 1-0 at Wembley Stadium on May 17, 2025, clinching the FA Cup and their first major trophy in the club's 164-year history.
The solitary goal came in the 16th minute, courtesy of Eberechi Eze, who volleyed in a clinical finish following a swift counterattack. Despite overwhelming possession by City, Palace's discipline, tactical brilliance, and defensive resilience proved decisive in a match that will be talked about for decades.
Crystal Palace’s dream night started with a moment of magic. Jean-Philippe Mateta's hold-up play released Ismaila Sarr down the right, whose low cross found Daniel Muñoz. The Colombian midfielder then set up Eze at the edge of the box. The England international made no mistake, smashing home a volley that gave goalkeeper Stefan Ortega no chance.
After going ahead, Palace spent much of the match under siege. Manchester City controlled over 80% of the ball and registered 21 shots to Palace's four. But Roy Hodgson’s side, marshaled by captain Joachim Andersen, held firm. Goalkeeper Dean Henderson was outstanding throughout, making six critical saves.
The most pivotal moment came just before half-time when City was awarded a penalty. Omar Marmoush stepped up, only to be denied by Henderson’s full-stretch save — a turning point that preserved Palace’s slender lead and energized their defensive commitment.
Henderson’s performance not only earned him the Man of the Match award but also prompted praise from the unlikeliest of sources.
Roy Hodgson, 77, who returned for his final managerial campaign with Palace this season, orchestrated a tactical masterclass. Knowing City would dominate the ball, Hodgson opted for a low block with quick counterattacking outlets in Sarr and Eze.
The strategy paid off, with Palace soaking up pressure and springing into transition at key moments. The midfield pairing of Will Hughes and Jefferson Lerma was instrumental in breaking up City’s rhythm and launching counters with precision.
Founded in 1861, Crystal Palace had never lifted a major trophy — until now. The club came close in 1990 when they lost the FA Cup final to Manchester United in a replay. Saturday’s win not only ends decades of heartbreak but also secures Palace a place in the UEFA Europa League next season.
The victory has sparked wild celebrations in south London, with fans pouring into the streets of Croydon and beyond. Social media has exploded with tributes, and Palace legends from past eras have hailed the current squad’s resilience and belief.
While City dominated statistically, their inability to break down a resolute Palace defense will raise questions about their tactical flexibility. Kevin De Bruyne and Bernardo Silva both struggled to find space, while Erling Haaland was kept quiet by Andersen and Guehi.
This loss marks City’s first domestic cup final defeat under Pep Guardiola since 2017. With the Premier League already secured and a Champions League final on the horizon, Guardiola was quick to downplay the result but acknowledged Palace’s deserved win.
With European football now guaranteed, the focus turns to squad development. Retaining stars like Eze and Henderson will be key, while reinforcements will be needed to compete on multiple fronts.
Club chairman Steve Parish has promised investment, and with the momentum of this victory, Palace may well begin a new era not as underdogs, but as a rising force in English football.
May 17, 2025, will go down as the greatest day in Crystal Palace’s history. Against one of the world’s most dominant footballing machines, they stood tall and emerged victorious. It was not just a win — it was a statement. A new chapter has begun at Selhurst Park.
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