Crystal Palace secured their historic first major trophy on Saturday, defeating Pep Guardiola`s Manchester City 1-0 in the FA Cup final. This victory marked Palace`s third appearance in the final and proved to be the moment they finally lifted the prestigious cup. Eberechi Eze`s goal in the first half was the decisive factor, a result that means Manchester City finishes a season without a trophy for the first time since 2016-17. The match also potentially served as Kevin de Bruyne`s final appearance for City, ending on a losing note as the club legend is expected to depart this summer.
For American soccer fans, USMNT players Chris Richards and Matt Turner earned winners` medals as part of the triumphant Crystal Palace squad. Richards was a key figure, playing the entire match, while Turner served as the backup goalkeeper.
Palace started the game strongly, taking the lead just 16 minutes in. The move originated with Jean-Philippe Mateta in midfield, who exchanged a quick one-two before finding right back Daniel Munoz. The Colombian defender took a touch and delivered a powerful, low cross across the face of goal, where Eze arrived to expertly finish into the far post.
Crystal Palace was fortunate to remain with a full squad shortly after scoring. Goalkeeper Dean Henderson clearly handled the ball outside his penalty area. According to rules experts, this incident warranted a red card for denying a goal-scoring opportunity, but the decision was not made by the on-field officials and VAR did not recommend a review.
Manchester City had a golden chance to equalize before halftime when Bernardo Silva was fouled inside the box, leading to a penalty. Omar Marmoush stepped up to take the spot-kick, aiming for the bottom left corner, but Dean Henderson produced a magnificent diving save to deny him. Henderson was quick to react again, recovering the loose ball before Erling Haaland could pounce on the rebound.
Henderson, formerly of Manchester United, delivered an outstanding performance against his old rivals. He faced a total of 23 shots throughout the match, making six crucial saves. Despite City dominating possession (79%) and completing nearly 500 more passes, they could not find a way past the inspired Palace goalkeeper and resolute defense.
Early in the second half, Daniel Munoz appeared to have extended Palace`s lead, scoring from his own rebound. However, the goal was correctly disallowed after a VAR review confirmed Ismaila Sarr was offside in the build-up.
Manchester City continued to press intensely, finishing the game with 23 shots and an expected goals (xG) total of 2.30. Despite their efforts, none of their chances found the back of the net. Ultimately, the underdogs, Crystal Palace, held firm to secure their historic victory, lifting the coveted trophy at Wembley Stadium in front of their passionate and deserving supporters.
