In a stunning FA Cup upset that will be remembered for years, non-league Macclesfield FC defeated Premier League holders Crystal Palace 2-1 on Saturday, 10th January 2026. The victory, masterminded by manager John Rooney, prompted an emotional and public tribute from his famous brother, former England captain Wayne Rooney.
A Historic Giant-Killing at Leasing.com Stadium
The third-round tie at the Leasing.com Stadium saw the underdog hosts take a shock lead right on the stroke of half-time through Paul Dawson. The dream scenario intensified midway through the second period when Isaac Buckley-Ricketts doubled Macclesfield's advantage. A late consolation goal from Palace's Yeremy Pino did little to dampen the celebrations, sealing one of the competition's most famous results.
Family Pride and Public Acclaim
In the immediate aftermath, Wayne Rooney took to social media platform X to share his immense pride in his younger brother's achievement. Posting a smiling photograph of the pair, he wrote a heartfelt four-word sentiment: "Couldn't be any prouder." He extended his congratulations to everyone involved at the club, calling it an "unbelievable achievement and more than deserved."
Speaking to BBC Sport, John Rooney himself was almost lost for words. "I still can't believe it. Can't get my head round it," he admitted. He praised his team's disciplined performance, stating, "I thought we mollified them to one chance in the first-half... I couldn't be any prouder of the lads." Wayne, analysing the match, singled out goalscorer Dawson for particular praise, describing his display as "absolutely outstanding."
Palace's Reaction and Cup Fallout
Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner offered no excuses for his side's dismal exit. He bluntly assessed that his team "deserved to lose" due to a complete lack of quality, highlighting poor defending and an inability to create clear chances. The defeat marks a humiliating early exit for the defending champions.
The monumental victory sends Macclesfield into the FA Cup fourth round, with the draw for the next stage scheduled for Monday, 12th January. The non-league side will discover whether their fairytale run can continue against another elite opponent.
