Eze Delivers Glory After 120 Years of Waiting
Crystal Palace have finally ended a 120-year pursuit for silverware. Eberechi Eze’s composed finish in the 16th minute sealed a dramatic 1-0 win over Manchester City at Wembley, earning Palace their first major trophy in club history.
The final pivoted on two pivotal moments involving goalkeeper Dean Henderson. First, he escaped a red card after a controversial handball outside the box. Then, he saved Omar Marmoush’s penalty just minutes later.
Despite dominating possession, City could not find a breakthrough. For the second straight season, Pep Guardiola’s side left Wembley without the FA Cup.
Glasner’s System Delivers Silverware — and a Statement
Olivier Glasner’s tactical discipline proved decisive. Since taking over in early 2024, he has instilled a structure that thrives under pressure. On Saturday, Palace sat deep, absorbed City’s pressure, and struck with precision on the counterattack.
Daniel Muñoz and Ismaïla Sarr impressed on the flanks, while the defensive unit led by Marc Guéhi stood tall. The victory also secures Europa League qualification next season.
City’s Titleless Season Nears Collapse
For Manchester City, the loss represents more than just another final defeat. It extends a trophyless season — their first since 2017 — and places their top-four hopes in serious jeopardy.
Guardiola voiced his frustration with the scheduling but acknowledged his side’s lack of attacking efficiency. With two Premier League games remaining, the pressure is on to avoid missing out on Champions League qualification.
Henderson’s Redemption Defines the Final
Dean Henderson emerged as the unexpected hero. His penalty save preserved Palace’s lead, but the moment came after a controversial incident.
Earlier in the half, Henderson handled the ball outside the box to deny Erling Haaland a scoring chance. Referee Stuart Attwell and VAR opted against a red card, igniting fury among City players.
That decision — and Henderson’s subsequent save — proved decisive.
Eze Steps into the Spotlight
Eberechi Eze’s journey from academy rejection to Wembley match-winner has become one of football’s most compelling stories.
Released by multiple London clubs as a teenager, the 26-year-old rose through the ranks at QPR before establishing himself at Selhurst Park. His winning goal, a product of sharp movement and cool finishing, capped a standout run of form — six goals in his last five matches.
With interest from European giants growing, Eze may soon follow in Michael Olise’s footsteps.
Guardiola’s Gamble Ends in Familiar Failure
Guardiola once again made bold tactical choices in a final, and once again they backfired.
He deployed Bernardo Silva alongside Kevin De Bruyne in a midfield duo, omitting a traditional holding midfielder. That decision exposed City on the break, and Palace capitalized early.
Despite an attacking trio featuring Jeremy Doku and Savinho, City’s service to Haaland was nearly nonexistent.
De Bruyne’s Likely Farewell Signals Changing Era
Saturday may have marked the last major appearance in a City shirt for Kevin De Bruyne. At 34 and with his contract set to expire, his role in the team’s future remains uncertain.
De Bruyne offered the only glimpses of creativity for City, but it was not enough. As the club eyes midfield reinforcements, the curtain may have fallen on one of the Premier League’s defining careers.
