Macclesfield Stun Crystal Palace in Biggest FA Cup Upset Ever

Non-league side rewrite 154 years of FA Cup history

In a competition defined by giant-killings, the FA Cup delivered its most astonishing result ever on Saturday. Sixth-tier Macclesfield FC knocked out holders Crystal Palace with a deserved 2-1 victory, creating the biggest upset in the tournament’s 154-year history.

The 117-place gap between the two clubs in the English football pyramid makes it unprecedented. No team from so far down the divisions has ever eliminated a top-flight side — let alone the reigning champions.

A night that felt like a classic cup tie

Macclesfield’s night was full of iconic FA Cup moments, none more fitting than the opening goal. Captain Paul Dawson, having his head bandaged moments earlier, powered home a deep free kick to send the home crowd into disbelief.

After the hour mark, striker Isaac Buckley-Ricketts doubled the advantage, putting Macclesfield firmly in control. Crystal Palace pulled one back late through a Yéremy Pino free kick in stoppage time, but the non-league side held their nerve to secure immortality.

Records shattered and history made

The result broke multiple FA Cup records at once. Macclesfield became the first club to beat an opponent five divisions above them and the first non-league side to knock out the defending champions in 117 years.

Ironically, the last non-league club to eliminate the holders was also Crystal Palace, who beat Wolves in 1909 — a remarkable historical loop closed more than a century later.

Wayne Rooney connection adds emotional twist

There was an extra layer of poignancy to the story. Macclesfield are coached by John Rooney, brother of Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney, who spoke emotionally after the final whistle.

“I am getting emotional to see my younger brother achieve this,” Rooney said. “To beat Crystal Palace, a Premier League team, and reach the fourth round is incredible. I am so proud of him.”

Where it ranks among FA Cup giant-killings

While the FA Cup has produced countless shocks, none compare in scale to this one. Sutton United’s famous 1989 win over Coventry City and Bradford City’s stunning comeback against Chelsea in 2015 remain iconic, but Macclesfield’s achievement surpasses them all.

Never before has a team this far down the pyramid eliminated a top-flight opponent — and against the holders, no less.

This was not just a shock. It was the shock.