A remarkable giant-killing unfolded in the FA Cup third round as non-league Macclesfield FC sensationally defeated the competition's holders, Crystal Palace. The National League North side, sitting 14th in their division, secured a stunning 2-1 victory that sparked a pitch invasion from jubilant fans at the final whistle.
Rooney Brothers' Emotional Moment
The historic win was made even more poignant by the involvement of the Rooney family. Macclesfield's manager, John Rooney, oversaw the incredible triumph, leaving his older brother Wayne Rooney visibly emotional while working as a BBC pundit. The former England and Manchester United captain, who won the FA Cup himself in 2016, was close to tears discussing his younger sibling's achievement.
"It's incredible, I am getting emotional to see my younger brother achieve this," Wayne said. "He's not been long in management and to get through to the fourth round of the FA Cup and beat Crystal Palace, I am so proud of him." An emotional embrace followed as John joined the BBC post-match, stating he "still can't believe it" and praising his team as "incredible to a man."
Love Island Star Among the Celebrations
Among the ecstatic Macclesfield players was Tom Clare, whose beaming smile was unmistakable during the celebrations. The 26-year-old forward was one of the club's first signings in June 2021 and proved instrumental in their early history, finishing as top scorer with 23 goals in the 2021-22 season.
Clare's profile was raised significantly when he was given permission to leave mid-season in January 2023 to appear on the ninth series of ITV2's Love Island, where he finished third. A year later, he won the first series of Love Island: All Stars with his now-fiancée Molly Smith, becoming a reality TV star alongside his football career.
A Victory for the Underdogs
This result stands as one of the greatest FA Cup shocks in recent memory, epitomising the magic of the competition. Macclesfield, operating four tiers below the Premier League's Crystal Palace, held on for a famous victory that will be remembered for years to come. The scenes of unbridled joy from players, staff, and supporters underscored the monumental scale of the achievement for the community-owned club.
The victory propels Macclesfield into the FA Cup fourth round draw, securing their place in football folklore and delivering a powerful reminder of the sport's enduring capacity for surprise.
