### Macclesfield's Historic FA Cup Upset: A David vs. Goliath Tale In a stunning turn of events, sixth-tier Macclesfield Town achieved one of the most remarkable upsets in FA Cup history by defeating the defending champions, Crystal Palace, with a score of 2-1. This match, held on January 10, 2026, at Macclesfield's home ground, Moss Rose, saw the underdogs triumph over a team that is 117 places above them in the English football league system. The victory not only knocked Crystal Palace out of the tournament but also marked a significant moment in FA Cup lore, showcasing the unpredictable nature of knockout football [https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-01-11/fa-cup-champions-crystal-place-beaten-by-macclesfield/106217706]. ### Breakdown of the Upset: Key Segments 1. **Match Overview**: - Macclesfield scored two goals through Paul Dawson and Isaac Buckley-Ricketts, while Crystal Palace managed only one goal. - The match was part of the FA Cup third round, a stage known for its potential for surprises. 2. **Historical Context**: - This defeat is noted as the biggest upset in FA Cup history in terms of league placement, surpassing the previous record gap of 108 places [https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/fa-cup-upsets-palace-macclesfield-36532228]. - The last time a non-league team defeated the FA Cup holders was in 1909, making this victory particularly significant [https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/macclesfield-crystal-palace-fa-cup-rooney-b2898056.html]. 3. **Reactions and Implications**: - The win sent shockwaves through the football community, with fans celebrating the historic achievement [https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/macclesfield-celebrate-biggest-fa-cup-33206579]. - The defeat raises questions about Crystal Palace's performance and future in the tournament, as they were expected to advance further [https://www.hindustantimes.com/sports/football/crystal-palace-suffer-biggest-ever-fa-cup-shock-liam-rosenior-makes-perfect-start-for-chelsea-101768098390360.html]. ### Supporting Evidence: Key Data Points - **Match Statistics**: - **Goals**: - Macclesfield: 2 (Dawson 43', Buckley-Ricketts 61') - Crystal Palace: 1 (Exact timing not specified) - **League Gap**: 117 places between Macclesfield (sixth tier) and Crystal Palace (Premier League) [https://www.firstpost.com/sports/football-news/macclesfield-vs-crystal-palace-match-report-biggest-upset-fa-cup-history-13967520.html]. - **Other Matches of Interest**: - Manchester City defeated Exeter City 10-1, showcasing the contrasting fortunes of teams in the tournament [https://www.rediff.com/sports/report/fa-cup-shocker-macclesfield-stun-holders-palace/20260111.htm]. ### Conclusion: A Momentous Upset in Football History **In summary**, Macclesfield's victory over Crystal Palace is not just a win for the club but a celebration of the spirit of the FA Cup, where underdogs can triumph against the odds. This match serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of knockout football and the potential for history to be made at any moment. 1. **Historic Victory**: Macclesfield's 2-1 win is the biggest upset in FA Cup history. 2. **Significant League Gap**: The match highlighted a 117-place difference between the teams. 3. **Community Impact**: The win has energized fans and raised questions about the future of Crystal Palace in the tournament. This match will be remembered as a defining moment in FA Cup history, illustrating the magic of the tournament [https://www.independent.ie/sport/soccer/fa-cup-giant-killing-for-the-ages-as-holders-crystal-palace-are-dumped-out-by-non-league-macclesfield/a451275013.html].