Macclesfield FC delivered one of football’s most unforgettable moments on January 10, 2026, defeating reigning FA Cup holders Crystal Palace 2-1 in the third round. The sixth-tier non-league side overcame a staggering 117-place gap in the English pyramid, earning widespread acclaim as the biggest shock in the competition’s storied history. Ecstatic fans invaded the pitch at Moss Rose, celebrating a victory that embodies the FA Cup’s enduring magic.
Match Summary: A Deserved Giant-Killing
Macclesfield showcased resilience and quality from the outset. Goals from Paul Dawson and Isaac Buckley-Richards sealed the win, with teenager Joel Drakes-Thomas also contributing to the attack. Palace pulled one back through Yeremi Pino, but the hosts held firm.
Manager Robbie Savage’s side thoroughly deserved the result, outplaying their Premier League opponents in key phases. Palace boss Oliver Glasner admitted his team “deserved to lose,” highlighting Macclesfield’s superior effort.
The full-time whistle triggered scenes of pure joy. Fans flooded the pitch, embracing players in a spontaneous outpouring rarely seen in modern football. Security managed the situation calmly, allowing the celebrations to continue safely.
Historical Context: Surpassing Legendary Upsets
This result eclipses previous FA Cup shocks due to the vast league disparity.
| Upset | Year | League Gap | Score | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Macclesfield vs Crystal Palace | 2026 | 117 places | 2-1 | Holders eliminated; biggest ever |
| Hereford vs Newcastle | 1972 | Significant | 2-1 | Non-league classic |
| Wrexham vs Arsenal | 1992 | Significant | 2-1 | Mickey Thomas iconic goal |
| Sutton United vs Coventry | 1989 | Significant | 2-1 | Holders beaten by non-league |
Macclesfield’s win stands alone as the first non-league victory over defending champions since records allow comparison.
Reactions and Celebrations
Players and staff joined fans in euphoria. Owner statements hinted at further ambitions, with some joking about Ibiza trips mirroring past giant-killings.
Pundits marvelled at the romance. “The greatest upset in FA Cup history,” declared multiple outlets. Social media buzzed with videos of the pitch invasion, capturing raw emotion.
For Palace, the early exit stings as holders. Captain Marc Guehi faced fan frustration post-match, underscoring the shock’s magnitude.
Wrexham’s Resurgent Story
Macclesfield’s phoenix rise—from reformation after financial collapse to non-league prominence—adds narrative depth. Celebrity involvement and community spirit have fuelled progress, now crowned by this landmark result.
Advancing to the fourth round offers draw excitement and potential revenue boost. Promotion pushes remain priority in the National League North.
The Magic of the FA Cup Lives On
This tie reaffirms why the FA Cup captivates. David slaying Goliath reminds fans of football’s unpredictability and joy.
Macclesfield supporters depart dreaming bigger. From pitch invasion to potential deep runs, the stars align for more memorable chapters.
In an era of financial divides, such upsets restore belief. Macclesfield FC’s 2026 heroics will endure as a benchmark for future magic.
