Crystal Palace FC, who are in the 12th position in the PL 2024/25, finally created history on Saturday evening (May 18), which is unforgettable for them, as they won their first major trophy in history by lifting the FA Cup 2024/25 after beating the favourite Manchester City by 1-0.
It was a dramatic final, where Palace were desperate to end their 119-year wait as a professional club for their first major trophy, and Man City had the only hope to win this trophy to maintain at least one major trophy victory in a season every time since the 2016/17 season (excluding the FA Community Shield). While Palace ultimately shone the night, Man City had another heartbreaking finish this season without a trophy.
At the Wembley Stadium, Manchester City maintained their dominance on the field, even earning a penalty in the first half. However, the brave Palace, especially mentioning their goalkeeper Dean Henderson, confidently handled the game to secure their forever memorable win.
Eze netted in 16th minute to open scoreline for Crystal Palace
In the 16th minute, Daniel Muñoz produced a great cross for Eberechi Eze, who made no mistake to net that chance and opened the scoreline with a 1-0 for their favour.
Manchester City Penalty Chance: Brave Dean Henderson made double saves
About 10 minutes before the half-time whistle, Manchester City had their best chance to equalize the scoreline, as they were awarded a penalty for a foul on Bernardo Silva inside the box by Tyrick Mitchell. However, it was an extraordinary day for Palace goalie Dean Henderson, who not only saved Omar Marmoush’s penalty shot diving to the left bottom corner, but the glovesman reacted quickly to catch the rebound chance safely after Erling Haaland attempted quickly.
The battle was really strong, while Henderson’s strong approaches with the gloves denied any scoreline-opening opportunity for the Sky Blues. Henderson made six valuable saves in the match.
VAR ruled out Crystal Palace's 2nd goal celebration
Close to the 60th minute of the match, Palace and Daniel Muñoz believed they had made it 2-0, but VAR ruled that out after Ismaïla Sarr was found offside. However, it didn’t cost them to create history.
First major trophy
It was the first major trophy for Crystal Palace FC in their 164-year existence (119 years as a professional club).
First Austrian manager to win the FA Cup
While Oliver Glasner started his managerial duty for Palace in February 2024, he became the first Austrian manager to win the FA Cup.
First time to experience the FA Community Shield
First time to experience the UEFA-controlled European challenge
Most importantly, by winning the FA Cup 2024/25, Crystal Palace FC has booked their first-ever ticket in the European club football challenge. They have directly qualified for the league phase of the UEFA Europa League 2025/26.
