Macclesfield FC Stuns FA Cup Holders Crystal Palace in Historic Upset

Historic FA Cup Upset at Moss Rose

Macclesfield FC, a club from the sixth tier of English football, delivered one of the most significant upsets in FA Cup history on January 10, 2026, by defeating reigning champions Crystal Palace 2-1 in the third round. The match, held at Macclesfield's home ground, Moss Rose (also known as the Leasing.com Stadium), saw the non-league side overcome a staggering 117-place league gap against their Premier League opponents.

The victory marks the first time in 117 years that a non-league team has knocked out the FA Cup holders, a feat last achieved by Crystal Palace themselves against Wolverhampton Wanderers in 1909.

Match Details and Key Moments

The decisive goals for Macclesfield came from captain Paul Dawson in the 43rd minute, who headed home from a Luke Duffy free-kick, and Isaac Buckley-Ricketts, who doubled the lead in the 60th minute. Crystal Palace, despite making six changes to their lineup, including England internationals Marc Guehi and Adam Wharton, struggled to assert dominance. A late consolation goal for Crystal Palace came in the 90th minute from a brilliant free-kick by Yeremy Pino, setting up a tense finish, but Macclesfield held on for the historic win.

The match was played in front of an attendance of 5,348, with fans pouring onto the pitch in celebration at the final whistle.

Reactions from the Camps

Macclesfield manager John Rooney, brother of former England captain Wayne Rooney, expressed his disbelief and pride following the monumental achievement. 'I can't believe it, we never thought we would be in this position,' Rooney told the BBC, adding, 'I thought we were deserved winners. I couldn't be any prouder of the lads.' The win carried additional emotional weight for Macclesfield, coming less than a month after the tragic death of their 21-year-old forward, Ethan McLeod, in a car accident.

Conversely, Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner was critical of his team's performance. 'We missed any kind of quality today,' Glasner stated, further remarking, 'I have no explanation for what I have seen today.' He suggested that even the club's U21 team 'would have done better' than the senior squad on the day.

Macclesfield's Resurgence

Macclesfield FC is a 'phoenix club' established in 2020 after the winding up of the former club, Macclesfield Town FC. Since its formation, the club has experienced a rapid ascent through the English football pyramid, securing multiple promotions to reach the National League North, the sixth tier. This victory against the Premier League side and FA Cup holders marks a significant milestone in their remarkable journey.