Crystal Palace have ended a remarkable 120-year wait for a major trophy, securing an incredible victory over Manchester City in the FA Cup final.
The decisive goal came from Eberechi Eze, while the Eagles` resilient defense successfully withstood relentless pressure from Manchester City throughout the match.
Pep Guardiola`s side dominated possession with 79% and registered 23 shots, but they were unable to find a breakthrough. Their most significant opportunity arose from a penalty awarded to Omar Marmoush, but the £60 million forward`s spot-kick was dramatically saved by Crystal Palace goalkeeper Dean Henderson in a pivotal moment.
Reaction and Analysis
Several figures offered their thoughts on Palace`s historic achievement.
“They have been incredible.”– Sean Dyche
Sean Dyche praised the entire Crystal Palace staff, players, and manager, stating they “have been incredible.” He commented, “You have to give credit to Steve Parish, he`s stood by what he does. Mainly you have to give it to the players and the manager, they`ve been incredible.”
“I`m emotional… Palace aren`t a big club, but they`re going to Europe.”– Clinton Morrison
Palace hero Clinton Morrison reflected on the significance of the moment for the London club, describing it as a “special time.” He noted that while Palace may not be considered a traditional “big club,” their victory sends them to Europe and might even help them retain key players like Eze and Jean-Philippe Mateta.
Lifting the Trophy
Club captain Marc Guehi and long-serving legend Joel Ward had the honour of lifting the FA Cup trophy together. It was a particularly moving moment for Ward, who is set to leave the club at the end of the season.
“Palace were outstanding… Dean Henderson made some crucial saves.”– Wayne Rooney
According to Wayne Rooney, Crystal Palace fully deserved their win. He highlighted their outstanding performance and hard work, specifically mentioning Dean Henderson`s crucial saves as key factors in the result.
Henderson`s Heroics
“I knew I`d save it… I dedicate that win to him.”– Dean Henderson
Dean Henderson, speaking pitchside, was visibly emotional and dedicated the victory to his late father. Reflecting on his penalty save against Marmoush, he said, “I knew which way he was going, I knew I would save it. I lost my dad at the start of the season but he was with me today. I dedicate that win to him.” His performance was truly outstanding, making a total of six vital saves throughout the match.
Manchester City`s Disappointment
The final whistle brought despair for Manchester City, marking the first time in eight years they have finished a domestic season without lifting a major trophy. The defeat highlights a game where City dominated possession and shots but were ultimately undone by Palace`s clinical attack and resolute defence.
SunSport`s Martin Blackburn described the match as typical of City`s season, where dominance didn`t translate into goals and they were vulnerable to counter-attacks. While acknowledging City`s potential grievance regarding the decision not to send off Dean Henderson, he concluded that Crystal Palace`s historic first major trophy was a well-deserved achievement that “nobody will begrudge.”
This outcome points towards a potentially significant summer of reflection and activity ahead for Manchester City at the Etihad.
