Crystal Palace win first trophy in 119-year history: Eze's wonder goal and Henderson's heroics stun Man City in FA Cup Final
In one of the most memorable days in Crystal Palace's history, the Eagles soared to their first-ever major trophy with a stunning 1-0 win over Manchester City in the 2025 FA Cup Final at Wembley. A magical goal from Eberechi Eze and an inspired performance from goalkeeper Dean Henderson etched this date – May 17, 2025 – into south London legend.
Crystal Palace beat Man City 1-0 to win the 2025 FA Cup. Eberechi Eze scores, Dean Henderson saves. First-ever trophy for the Eagles!
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History Made Under the Wembley Arch
This was more than just a cup final – it was the crowning moment of Crystal Palace’s 119-year journey, a triumph over one of football's greatest modern dynasties. Facing heavy favourites Manchester City, Oliver Glasner’s men defied the odds and delivered a masterclass in grit, unity, and tactical discipline.
Eberechi Eze: The Man, The Moment
The decisive moment came just after the quarter-hour mark. A composed build-up from the back led to Jean-Philippe Mateta holding the ball up and feeding Daichi Kamada, whose cross-field pass released Daniel Munoz. The Colombian surged down the right and squared the ball for Eze, who swept it first-time past Ortega to ignite pandemonium in the Palace end.
The Wembley roar said it all: “Eze, where do you want your statue?”
Dean Henderson’s Wembley Masterclass
Man City pressed. They controlled possession, created chances, and forced Palace to defend deep. But Dean Henderson refused to be beaten.
After surviving a controversial VAR check for handling outside the box against Erling Haaland, the former Manchester United keeper cemented his legacy by saving Omar Marmoush’s penalty with a spectacular low dive – his fourth save in the last eight penalties he’s faced.
As the pressure mounted, Henderson made further key stops – including one against Claudio Echeverri in stoppage time – to ensure the Eagles held firm.
Glasner’s Redemption and Tactical Brilliance
Just weeks ago, Palace were thrashed 5-2 by City. But Glasner learned from the experience, setting up his side compactly while allowing moments of attacking brilliance. The balance was perfect. The execution was historic.
Oliver Glasner, who only arrived mid-season, has now delivered Crystal Palace’s first trophy and forever changed the club’s trajectory.
Palace Player Ratings vs Man City
Dean Henderson (9/10): A wall in goal. Game-defining saves.
Daniel Munoz (8/10): Relentless engine, assist king.
Eberechi Eze (8/10): The difference-maker. A goal for the ages.
Chris Richards, Maxence Lacroix, Marc Guehi (All 7/10): Solid defensive backbone.
Adam Wharton, Daichi Kamada (7/10): Controlled chaos in midfield.
Jean-Philippe Mateta (7/10): The unsung creator.
Ismaila Sarr, Tyrick Mitchell (6/10): Mixed performances, full effort.
Subs: Lerma, Nketiah (6/10), Hughes (N/A): Important supporting roles.
Manager – Oliver Glasner (9/10): Tactical genius. Historic achievement.
A Day to Remember Forever
From Eze’s wonder goal to Henderson’s penalty heroics, this was a day that will never be forgotten by the red and blue side of London. Wembley was the stage, the Eagles were the stars, and football – once again – reminded us of its romantic side.
Crystal Palace are 2025 FA Cup Champions. And for the first time ever, they have silverware to show for it.
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