In one of the biggest upsets of the 2025-26 FA Cup, Crystal Palace were eliminated in the third round after a 2-1 defeat to Macclesfield Town, a sixth-tier team.
Crystal Palace were the reigning champions, having defeated Manchester City 1-0 in last season’s final at Wembley Stadium, a victory that also earned them a place in the Community Shield, where Oliver Glasner’s side triumphed over Liverpool on penalties.
The home side took the lead in the 43rd minute through Paul Dawson, and Isaac Buckley Ricketts doubled their advantage in the 60th minute. In a desperate attempt to salvage a draw, Yeremy Pinault pulled a goal back for Palace in the 90th minute.
After the final whistle, Macclesfield Town fans stormed the pitch in a frenzy to celebrate what they considered the biggest win in the club’s history.
The London club is clearly in decline, having failed to win any of its last nine matches in all competitions, and now suffers another setback with an unexpected early exit at the hands of Macclesfield Town United.
This early exit, coupled with Crystal Palace’s inconsistent results in the Premier League, raises several questions about manager Oliver Glasner and whether he is capable of leading a top club next season.
The Austrian has informed his club that he will not renew his contract, which expires next June, while Manchester United are monitoring the situation with a view to appointing him permanently as a replacement for Reuben Amorim. Liverpool are also reportedly interested should Arne Slott leave the club.
