Macclesfield FA Cup upset delivered one of the most remarkable shocks in recent FA Cup history as non-league Macclesfield knocked out holders Crystal Palace with a stunning 2-1 victory in the third round.
The result sent shockwaves through English football, with Macclesfield, reformed in 2020 after the original club was wound up, overcoming opposition more than 100 places above them in the football pyramid.
The holders, who lifted the FA Cup only eight months ago, were unable to cope with Macclesfield’s intensity, organisation, and belief on a historic afternoon.
Macclesfield FA Cup upset leaves Crystal Palace stunned
Macclesfield took a deserved lead just before half-time when captain Paul Dawson powered home a header from a set-piece, once again exposing Crystal Palace’s vulnerability from dead-ball situations.
Despite making several changes, Palace still named senior figures such as Marc Guéhi and Adam Wharton, yet struggled to generate fluency or sustained pressure. The Premier League side looked flat and short of ideas as Macclesfield grew in confidence.
The advantage was doubled on the hour mark when Isaac Buckley-Ricketts reacted quickest in a crowded penalty area, stretching to divert the ball beyond Walter Benítez after a series of blocked clearances.
The Macclesfield FA Cup upset was now fully unfolding, with Palace facing the prospect of becoming the first FA Cup holders to lose to non-league opposition since 1909.
Late rally fails to rescue Palace
Oliver Glasner responded with multiple substitutions in search of a response, but Palace continued to look anxious in possession and uncertain defensively.
A late free-kick from Yeremy Pino pulled one back in the closing moments, setting up a nervy finish. However, Macclesfield held firm through added time, defending resolutely to secure a famous victory.
The final whistle sparked emotional scenes as supporters poured onto the pitch to celebrate a result that will live long in the club’s history.
Why the Macclesfield FA Cup upset matters
The Macclesfield FA Cup upset underlined everything that makes the competition special — belief, bravery, and the possibility for any team, regardless of status, to defy the odds.
The victory was also deeply emotional, coming weeks after the tragic death of 21-year-old forward Ethan McLeod. The players honoured his memory with a performance defined by togetherness and determination.
For Crystal Palace, the defeat raises fresh questions following a limp surrender of the trophy, especially given ongoing concerns at set-pieces and a lack of cutting edge. For Macclesfield, it represents validation of their rebuild and a defining moment in the club’s rebirth.
Full match details and report are available via the original source: ESPN.
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What this result says about the FA Cup
The Macclesfield FA Cup upset once again underlined why the competition remains one of the most cherished tournaments in world football. At a time when elite clubs often prioritise league position and European qualification, the FA Cup continues to provide a platform where belief, preparation and bravery can outweigh budgets and reputation.
For non-league sides like Macclesfield, fixtures like this represent a rare opportunity to test themselves against Premier League opposition on equal terms. The Silkmen did not simply rely on luck; they earned their victory through tactical discipline, physical commitment and a clear understanding of Palace’s weaknesses, particularly from set-pieces.
These moments are vital for the health of English football’s pyramid. Financial windfalls from progression, increased media attention and renewed supporter engagement can transform the trajectory of clubs operating far below the professional ranks.
Pressure grows on Crystal Palace after FA Cup exit
While the Macclesfield FA Cup upset will live forever in the memory of the victors, it is equally damaging for Crystal Palace. As defending champions, expectations were high, and the nature of the defeat will raise serious questions about focus, squad rotation and mentality.
Palace’s struggles defending set-pieces were once again laid bare, while their slow tempo in possession allowed Macclesfield to settle into the game far too comfortably. Despite late pressure, the Premier League side lacked conviction in the final third and were ultimately punished.
Exits like this often have repercussions beyond a single match. Momentum can quickly shift, and attention will now turn to how Palace respond in league competition following a deeply embarrassing loss.
Macclesfield FA Cup upset inspires belief ahead of next round
For Macclesfield, the journey does not end here. The Macclesfield FA Cup upset provides belief that anything is possible in the next round, regardless of the calibre of opposition they face.
The club’s revival since reforming in 2020 has been driven by community spirit and resilience, and this historic win stands as the ultimate symbol of that progress. Players, staff and supporters are now united by a moment that will define a generation.
No matter what happens next, Macclesfield have already achieved something extraordinary — proof that in the FA Cup, history can still be rewritten in 90 minutes.
