Dean Henderson was the hero for Crystal Palace as they beat Manchester City 1-0 to win the FA Cup. Ebere Eze scored the only goal of the game in the 16th minute, but Henderson’s incredible saves were the difference. He stopped Erling Haaland’s acrobatic shot early on and made a stunning penalty save from Omar Marmoush in the 36th minute.
Manchester City dominated possession but couldn’t create many clear chances. Jeremy Doku was their most threatening player, but Henderson was up to the task. He made a great save in the 41st minute to deny Doku.
A Goal and a Clean Sheet
Crystal Palace’s strategy was to absorb pressure and hit Manchester City on the counter. They succeeded, with Eze scoring after a quick counter-attack. Daniel Munoz’s cross found Eze, who slotted the ball past Stefan Ortega.
The London team had another chance soon after, but Ortega saved Sarr’s shot. Manchester City pushed hard for an equalizer, but Henderson was solid. He made a fantastic save to deny Marmoush’s penalty.
CRYSTAL PALACE STRIKE FIRST IN THE FINAL 😲
Who else but @EbereEze10!? 🤩#EmiratesFACup pic.twitter.com/CQGR9cUFPl
— Emirates FA Cup (@EmiratesFACup) May 17, 2025
Second-Half Pressure
The second half saw Manchester City pour forward, but they couldn’t break through. They had over 70% possession, but their attacks were disjointed. Echeverri, making his debut, had a chance to equalize but Henderson was again the man.
Crystal Palace held on for the win, securing their first FA Cup title. They also qualified for European competitions. Manchester City, on the other hand, ended the season with only the Super Cup to celebrate.
DEAN HENDERSON.
The @CPFC shot-stopper with an incredible save to deny Omar Marmoush from the spot 🤯#EmiratesFACup pic.twitter.com/Mxf5URv9K6
— Emirates FA Cup (@EmiratesFACup) May 17, 2025