Full Breakdown
FA Cup Third Round: Macclesfield's Historic Upset Over Crystal Palace
1/12/2026, 11:16:20 PM
The Core Event: Macclesfield Stuns Crystal Palace
In a remarkable display of football, Macclesfield FC, a sixth-tier team, achieved a historic upset by defeating reigning FA Cup champions Crystal Palace 2-1 in the third round of the competition. This victory marks the largest gap in league standings ever overcome in the FA Cup's 155-year history, with Macclesfield ranked 117 places below Palace in the English football pyramid.
Key Highlights of the Match
Macclesfield's triumph was characterized by a strong performance from captain Paul Dawson, who scored the opening goal with a header, and Isaac Buckley-Ricketts, who doubled their lead shortly after halftime. Although Palace managed to score a late goal through Yeremy Pino, Macclesfield held firm to secure their place in the fourth round. The match was played in front of a crowd of just over 5,000 at Moss Rose, showcasing the magic of the FA Cup where lower-league teams can compete against top-flight clubs.
Background: Macclesfield's Journey
Macclesfield FC's victory is particularly poignant given the club's recent history. After facing liquidation in 2020, the club was reformed and has since climbed back up the footballing ranks, achieving three promotions in four years. Manager John Rooney, brother of former England captain Wayne Rooney, expressed immense pride in his team's performance, stating, "I couldn't be any prouder of the lads. I thought we were deserved winners."
Wrexham's Parallel Success
On the same weekend, Wrexham AFC, owned by Hollywood actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, also made headlines by defeating Premier League side Nottingham Forest in a thrilling penalty shootout after a 3-3 draw. This victory further emphasizes the unpredictability and excitement of the FA Cup, where lower-tier teams are proving they can compete with the elite.
Criticism & Opposition: Palace's Disappointment
The defeat has drawn criticism towards Crystal Palace, with manager Oliver Glasner acknowledging that his team did not perform to expectations. Many fans expressed frustration over the lack of passion displayed by the players, contrasting sharply with Macclesfield's energy and commitment. Glasner stated, "There are no excuses for such a limp display," highlighting the need for his squad to regroup and refocus.
Official Statements & Responses
Macclesfield chairman Rob Smethurst described the victory as feeling like winning the FA Cup itself, celebrating the moment with fans who stormed the pitch post-match. He remarked, "The scenes for the town and the community yesterday were just one of those experiences that I'm never going to forget."
What's Next: Fourth Round Draw
Following their historic win, Macclesfield will be included in the FA Cup fourth round draw, which is set to take place on February 14-15, 2026. The excitement surrounding their next match is palpable, as they aim to continue their fairy-tale run in the tournament.
Conclusion: The Magic of the FA Cup
The FA Cup continues to be a platform for dramatic upsets and inspiring stories, as demonstrated by Macclesfield's victory over Crystal Palace and Wrexham's success against Nottingham Forest. These events serve as a reminder of the competition's unique charm, where hope and ambition thrive, regardless of league standings.
