Crystal Palace’s storied history is punctuated by memorable matches that have shaped the club’s identity and galvanised generations of supporters. From dramatic cup encounters to promotion-sealing triumphs, these games represent defining moments in the Eagles’ journey through English football.
The 1990 FA Cup Semi-Final
Crystal Palace’s 4-3 victory over Liverpool at Villa Park on 8 April 1990 stands as perhaps the most remarkable result in the club’s history. Facing the reigning champions as massive underdogs, Palace overturned a 1-0 deficit after Ian Rush opened the scoring early. The Eagles demonstrated resilience and tactical intelligence, scoring three of their four goals from set pieces after meticulous preparation. This triumph avenged a 9-0 humiliation at Anfield earlier in the season and secured Palace’s place in their first FA Cup final.
| Match | Date | Score | Competition | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Palace vs Liverpool | 8 April 1990 | 4-3 (AET) | FA Cup Semi-Final | Booked first FA Cup final appearance |
| Palace vs Man United | 12 May 1990 | 3-3 (AET) | FA Cup Final | Historic draw at Wembley |
| Palace vs Newcastle | 18 March 1998 | 2-1 | Premier League | Rare away victory during relegation season |
| Palace vs Watford | 27 May 2013 | 1-0 (AET) | Championship Play-Off Final | Secured Premier League promotion |
The 1990 FA Cup Final Drama
Five weeks after their Liverpool heroics, Palace faced Manchester United at Wembley in front of 78,000 spectators. The match produced one of the competition’s most thrilling encounters, finishing 3-3 after extra time. Gary O’Reilly opened the scoring in the 18th minute before Bryan Robson equalised for United. Substitute Ian Wright, returning from a broken leg that kept him out of the semi-final, scored twice (72nd and 92nd minutes) to twice level the match after Mark Hughes goals. Despite their valiant efforts, Palace lost the replay 1-0, but this original final remains etched in football folklore as one of Wembley’s greatest spectacles.
Premier League Battles
Palace’s 2-1 away victory at Newcastle on 18 March 1998 provided temporary respite during a difficult relegation season. Attilio Lombardo and Michele Padovano found the net in a rare London club triumph at St James’ Park, though it ultimately couldn’t prevent Palace’s drop to the Championship. The 1997-98 campaign demonstrated the club’s capacity to compete against elite opposition even in adversity.
The £120 Million Match
The 2013 Championship Play-Off Final against Watford at Wembley proved transformative for Palace’s modern trajectory. Played before 82,025 spectators on 27 May 2013, the match remained goalless until extra time. Wilfried Zaha, playing his final game before his Manchester United move, won a penalty when fouled by Marco Cassetti. Veteran striker Kevin Phillips converted emphatically in the 105th minute, firing high into the top corner. This 1-0 victory secured Palace’s return to the Premier League after an eight-year absence, marking their fourth play-off final triumph in five attempts.
Record-Breaking Unbeaten Run
Palace’s 19-match unbeaten streak in 2025 surpassed the club’s previous best of 18 games set in 1969. This remarkable run included two wins and a draw against Liverpool, the FA Cup final victory over Manchester City, and draws at Arsenal and Chelsea.
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