In one of the most astonishing results in the long history of the FA Cup, National League North side Macclesfield pulled off a seismic shock by knocking out the competition's holders, Crystal Palace. The dramatic 2-1 victory at Moss Rose on Saturday 10 January 2026 sent shockwaves through English football and left one famous spectator in tears.
A Historic Victory for the Underdogs
Macclesfield, sitting 117 places below their top-flight opponents in the football pyramid, became the first ever side from the sixth tier to eliminate a Premier League team from the FA Cup. The home side took a deserved lead in the first half through captain Paul Dawson's powerful header. The dream was solidified when Isaac Buckley-Ricketts found the net, sending the home support into raptures.
Crystal Palace, the reigning champions, managed a late consolation goal through Yeremy Pino in the 90th minute, setting up a nervy finale. However, John Rooney's men displayed immense resilience, digging deep to withstand a late onslaught and secure a famous victory that will be etched into FA Cup folklore.
Emotional Rooney Brothers Share Priceless Moment
Watching pitchside as part of the BBC Sport punditry team was former England captain Wayne Rooney. As the final whistle blew and ecstatic Macclesfield fans flooded onto the pitch, an emotional Rooney struggled to contain his pride for his younger brother, manager John.
"It's incredible to see my younger brother achieve this," a choked-up Wayne said. "He has not long been the manager. I am so proud of him. He looked so calm towards the end... What he's achieved today, absolutely superb."
Manager John Rooney Revels in 'Unbelievable' Achievement
The victorious manager then joined his brother for a pitchside interview, sharing a heartfelt embrace. John Rooney admitted he could scarcely believe what his team had accomplished. "I can't believe it, we never thought we would be in this position," he stated. "We were incredible from the first minute. I thought we were deserved winners."
He praised his players' monumental effort, saying, "I couldn't be any prouder of the lads. I couldn't have asked any more of them." Reflecting on the tense closing stages, he added, "When we got later on in the game, we were thinking about slowing it down. I never thought we'd be in that situation. We still can't believe it."
The manager highlighted his team's tactical discipline, noting they restricted the Premier League outfit to just one clear chance in the first half. This historic result marks a stunning early highlight in John Rooney's managerial career and provides a magical moment for a club and its supporters that will be remembered for generations.
