Football legend Wayne Rooney was visibly moved on live television as he watched his younger brother, John Rooney, mastermind one of the greatest shocks in FA Cup history. The non-league side, Macclesfield Town, defied a 117-place gap in the football pyramid to knock out the reigning champions, Crystal Palace, in a dramatic third-round tie on Saturday, January 10, 2026.
A Historic Giant-Killing at Moss Rose
The match at Moss Rose produced a fairy-tale result for the National League North outfit. Playing in the sixth tier of English football, Macclesfield took a shock lead just before half-time when Paul Dawson headed home from a free-kick. The home side doubled their advantage on the hour mark through a moment of brilliance from Isaac Buckley-Ricketts, who cleverly deceived Palace goalkeeper Walter Benitez.
Premier League side Palace set up a tense finale when Jeremy Pino curled in a superb free-kick with minutes remaining. However, Macclesfield's defence held firm to secure a famous 2-1 victory, sparking a pitch invasion from jubilant home fans at the final whistle.
Brotherly Pride on the BBC
Watching on as part of the BBC's punditry team, former Manchester United and England captain Wayne Rooney was overcome with emotion. As cameras captured the wild celebrations, Rooney was heard paying tribute to his brother's achievement. "I'm getting emotional here watching my younger brother achieve this," he said, his voice cracking. "He's not long been in management and to get through to the fourth round and beat Crystal Palace, a Premier League team, I am so proud of him."
The Manager's Reaction and Legacy
A triumphant John Rooney struggled to comprehend the scale of his team's accomplishment. "I can't believe it, we never thought we would be in this position," the Macclesfield manager stated. "We were incredible from the first minute. I thought we were deserved winners. I couldn't be any prouder of the lads."
In terms of the league positions separating the two clubs, this result now stands as the biggest upset in the entire history of the FA Cup. The victory books Macclesfield Town's place in the fourth-round draw, cementing a day that will live long in the memory of the club and its supporters, and providing a poignant family moment for the Rooney brothers broadcast to the nation.
