In a stunning testament to the enduring magic of the FA Cup, sixth-tier Macclesfield FC have pulled off one of the competition's greatest ever upsets, knocking out the reigning holders, Premier League side Crystal Palace. The seismic result on Saturday, 10 January 2026, served as a powerful reminder of why the world's oldest domestic cup competition continues to captivate.
A Moment of Pure Football Magic
Just a season after Crystal Palace fans celebrated their first major trophy at Wembley, they were left applauding the part-time heroes from Macclesfield. The National League North outfit, who train just twice a week, produced a disciplined and heroic performance to secure a famous victory, earning the club a life-changing £400,000 in prize money.
The scenes at full-time were unforgettable, with Palace supporters showing immense respect for the magnitude of Macclesfield's achievement. For the players, many of whom balance football with full-time jobs, it is a moment that will define their lives.
The Part-Time Heroes Behind the Upset
The victory was forged not by luck, but by impeccable organisation, resolute defending, and fearless commitment. Captain Paul Dawson, who scored the opening goal, embodies the club's community spirit. "We're all part time," Dawson explained. "I coach younger lads and work for a friend's company, Chloe Jade, packing candles and diffusers. I was clearing snow with a shovel on Tuesday night and dropping off tracksuits like Postman Pat yesterday."
Fittingly, Dawson spent hours after the final whistle celebrating with fans, still in his kit and pulling pints in the club bar. Defender Sam Heathcote, a primary school teacher in Altrincham, recounted how his pupils had given him simple advice: "Don't get sent off... don't give away a penalty." He admitted, "I didn't expect to be going into school on Monday having won."
Setting the Tone for a Historic Win
Heathcote pinpointed the moment he knew something special was possible. From the opening kick-off, skipper Dawson clashed heads with Palace's Jaydee Canvot in a fearless challenge. "That set the tone for me," Heathcote said. "We do that same kickoff every time. For me, if I was in their dressing room, I'd be like… 'ooh, these boys are up for it.'"
That fearless attitude underpinned a tactical masterclass. Macclesfield were compact, denied Palace space, and broke with purpose when opportunities arose. The result is a landmark in FA Cup folklore, proving that in this competition, romance and reality can still spectacularly collide.
Every season, faith in the FA Cup is tested by late kick-offs, early draws, and weakened teams. Yet, as Macclesfield's miracle proves, the grand old competition always finds a way to respond, delivering moments of pure, unscripted drama that resonate far beyond the final whistle.
