On January 10, 2026, in the FA Cup's third round, Macclesfield, a sixth-tier non-league team, achieved a historic victory over the reigning competition champions Crystal Palace with a 2-1 scoreline. This remarkable match took place at Macclesfield's home ground, Moss Rose, marking an unforgettable upset.
During the match, Paul Dawson put Macclesfield in the lead with a goal in the 43rd minute, and Isaac Buckley-Ricketts added a second in the 60th minute to secure the win. Although Palace's Yéremy Pino managed to score from a free-kick, it ultimately became a dark chapter for them.
The match set a record as the largest upset in a clash between teams that stand 117 places apart in the English football pyramid. Having battled financial crises and fallen across leagues in recent years, Macclesfield utilized this victory to signify their resurgence, etching a moment in football history.
What adds even more significance to this triumph is that the team's manager is John Rooney, brother of Wayne Rooney. The fact that the squad consists of players and staff with professions like lawyers, podcasters, and teachers highlights their amateur nature, making it truly a story of a "great victory achieved by a little giant."
This upset in the FA Cup stands as a symbol of ideals and challenges beyond just winning. The possibility of Macclesfield's upward momentum, and this game inspiring hope among all non-league teams, is significant. It will be interesting to see what strategic changes the team will implement to enhance their competitiveness in the leagues ahead.
This match offers an opportunity to reflect on the trials, resilience, and how this experience will boost team morale. They now share in the legendary moments of the FA Cup.
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