Henderson and Eze Lead Palace to First-Ever Major Trophy
Crystal Palace secured their first-ever major trophy with a stunning FA Cup final victory over Manchester City at Wembley. Star performances from Dean Henderson and Eberechi Eze powered Palace to a heroic 1-0 win, marking the club’s most successful season since 1990-91.
What’s Next for Both Teams?
Palace Set for a Celebratory Finale
Although Crystal Palace have two Premier League matches left, their job is done. With a Europa League spot now confirmed, their upcoming fixture against Wolves at Selhurst Park will be nothing more than a victory lap for fans and players.
City Still Fighting for Champions League Football
In contrast, Manchester City’s season isn’t over. Pep Guardiola’s men still have Champions League qualification to secure. They host Bournemouth in Kevin De Bruyne’s final home game before traveling to Fulham for their league finale football. 
A Season to Remember for Crystal Palace
This victory caps a historic campaign for Crystal Palace. Their 21 wins across all competitions this season rank among the best in club history, only surpassed in 1989-90 and 1990-91. But with the FA Cup now in their trophy cabinet, 2024-25 will be remembered as their greatest ever.
A Season to Forget for Manchester City
For Manchester City, the defeat adds to a disappointing season. With 16 losses in all competitions, it’s their worst tally since the 2008-09 season. This also marks the second straight FA Cup final loss for Pep Guardiola, after last year’s defeat to Manchester United.
Underdogs Making History
Crystal Palace now join Wigan Athletic in FA Cup folklore. Both clubs claimed their first major title by defeating Manchester City in the final — Wigan in 2013, and now Palace in 2025. It’s a bittersweet stat for City fans, but a magical one for the underdogs.
Glasner Hails Eze’s Match-Winning Talent
Palace manager Oliver Glasner praised Eberechi Eze for his consistent match-winning form.
“He scored the opener against Fulham, Villa, and today — the match winner. If you want to win a trophy, you need great players and we have them.”
Dean Henderson: The FA Cup Final Hero
Dean Henderson’s emotional reaction at full time said it all. His penalty save and multiple crucial stops in open play made him a standout performer, cementing his status as a Crystal Palace hero.
Guardiola: “It’s About Goals – We Didn’t Score”
Pep Guardiola expressed frustration after the final whistle:
“We played really good. We created more chances, but couldn’t score. The first chance they had in transition, they took it. It’s about goals.”
Despite the disappointment, Guardiola declined to discuss the controversial non-red card decision involving Henderson.
