‎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.

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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

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‎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.

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‎Eberechi Eze: The Man, The Moment

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‎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.

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‎The Wembley roar said it all: “Eze, where do you want your statue?”

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‎Dean Henderson’s Wembley Masterclass

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‎Man City pressed. They controlled possession, created chances, and forced Palace to defend deep. But Dean Henderson refused to be beaten.

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‎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.

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‎As the pressure mounted, Henderson made further key stops – including one against Claudio Echeverri in stoppage time – to ensure the Eagles held firm.

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‎Glasner’s Redemption and Tactical Brilliance

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‎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.

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‎Oliver Glasner, who only arrived mid-season, has now delivered Crystal Palace’s first trophy and forever changed the club’s trajectory.

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‎Palace Player Ratings vs Man City

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‎Dean Henderson (9/10): A wall in goal. Game-defining saves.

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‎Daniel Munoz (8/10): Relentless engine, assist king.

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‎Eberechi Eze (8/10): The difference-maker. A goal for the ages.

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‎Chris Richards, Maxence Lacroix, Marc Guehi (All 7/10): Solid defensive backbone.

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‎Adam Wharton, Daichi Kamada (7/10): Controlled chaos in midfield.

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‎Jean-Philippe Mateta (7/10): The unsung creator.

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‎Ismaila Sarr, Tyrick Mitchell (6/10): Mixed performances, full effort.

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‎Subs: Lerma, Nketiah (6/10), Hughes (N/A): Important supporting roles.

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‎Manager – Oliver Glasner (9/10): Tactical genius. Historic achievement.

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‎A Day to Remember Forever

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‎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.

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‎Crystal Palace are 2025 FA Cup Champions. And for the first time ever, they have silverware to show for it.