Oliver Glasner has urged Crystal Palace to "go for every single one" as his FA Cup winners celebrated their upset Wembley win over Manchester City in front of more than 20,000 fans at Selhurst Park on Monday.

Rain towards the end of the Eagles' open-top bus parade through the streets of south London could not dampen the enthusiasm of Palace fans determined to revel in the club's first major trophy in its 119-year history.

"It's very exciting, and we all will enjoy this journey, playing the Premier League, playing the Carabao (League) Cup, playing the FA Cup and playing the Europa League," Glasner said on stage.

"Four competitions, four titles to win, let's go for every single one," the Palace manager added.

Glasner led Eintracht Frankfurt to Europa League glory in 2022, with the 50-year-old Austrian now credited with transforming Palace's mentality and ambition since arriving in south London in February 2024.

"I couldn't be more pleased" 🥹

Oliver Glasner reflects on his experience as Crystal Palace manager this season ❤️💙 pic.twitter.com/efY7r5AhGw

— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 26, 2025

"I couldn't be more pleased to work with a group of players like they are," added Glasner.

"Not just because of their talent, they are great talents, but especially what great characters they are (and) I couldn't be more pleased to manage in a club like Crystal Palace with fans like you.

"We had tough moments in this season, but you were always behind us. You always supported us, and my feeling was we were always one Crystal Palace, and that's why we could win the trophy, that's why we could succeed, so thank you very much for your support, and let's keep going like this."

Palace goalkeeper Dean Henderson, who saved a penalty in a 1-0 Wembley win over City where Eberechi Eze's goal sealed victory, said on Monday: "This is for the fans. You deserve this. Enjoy it, and we'll be back next season with more, hopefully."

Pep Guardiola says Manchester City would not "deserve" to qualify for the Champions League if they finish outside the top five in the Premier League but is confident they will get over the line.

City have had a miserable season by their high standards, ending the campaign without a trophy for the first time since 2017.

The deposed Premier League champions are sixth in the table ahead of Tuesday's home match against mid-table Bournemouth but are just one point behind Newcastle, Chelsea and Aston Villa, with a game in hand.

The top five clubs in the Premier League will all qualify for next season's Champions League.

"If we are not in the Champions League, it's because we don't deserve it," City boss Guardiola said on Monday. "And we'll play the Europa League. So, it is what it is."

But he remains bullish over his team's prospects, just days after they lost the FA Cup final to Crystal Palace.

"I'm thinking we're going to qualify.... To finish in third position in the Premier League, that is my target," he said.

Tuesday's game at the Etihad will be the final home match for long-serving Belgium midfielder Kevin De Bruyne, who is leaving the club at the end of the season.

But Guardiola said his own priority, and that of his captain De Bruyne, was achieving qualification for the Champions League.

City have been ever-present in Europe's top club competition since the 2011/12 season.

"I am going to decide the best, the best players to win the game against Bournemouth, that's for sure," said Guardiola.

"Kevin will get or deserve what he deserves. That is the best moment and best compliment for his incredible trajectory and what he has done."

Chelsea beat Manchester United 3-0 in the Women's FA Cup final at Wembley on Sunday to complete an English domestic treble in French coach Sonia Bompastor's first season in charge.

CHELSEA ARE YOUR 2025 FA CUP WINNERS! 🏆 pic.twitter.com/UPbmmm1iPe

— (C)helsea FC Women (@ChelseaFCW) May 18, 2025

Sandy Baltimore scored twice, either side of setting up Catarina Macario for the west London side's second.

France international Baltimore opened the scoring from the penalty spot in first-half stoppage time before Macario headed in her free-kick to put the result beyond doubt in the 84th minute.

Baltimore then wrapped up the scoring against United, last season's FA Cup winners, in the first minute of added-on time when she turned Lisa Naalsund before lashing the ball home from close range.

On their way to collect the FA Cup! 🚶‍♀️#CFCW pic.twitter.com/v5T2lPypDo

— (C)helsea FC Women (@ChelseaFCW) May 18, 2025

Chelsea had already been crowned English champions, becoming the first team to remain unbeaten in a 22-game Women's Super League season as they won their sixth successive domestic league title after previously lifting the League Cup.

Bompastor took over at Chelsea after long-serving and successful manager Emma Hayes left to become the United States' national women's team manager.

But their hopes of a quadruple were scuppered when they lost 8-2 on aggregate to Barcelona in the semi-finals of the Women's Champions League – a tournament they've yet to win for all their domestic triumphs.

At Wembley, in a crowd featuring new Chelsea women's team investor Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian – as well his tennis champion wife Serena Williams – the Blues dominated the first half but were kept waiting for an opening goal.

TREBLE WINNERS! 🏆🏆🏆

Chelsea have won all THREE domestic trophies this season! pic.twitter.com/89sfVQ5W99

— (C)helsea FC Women (@ChelseaFCW) May 18, 2025

It looked as if United would go into the break with the game still goalless but poor defending from Celin Bizet saw her step into Erin Cuthbert and bring the Scotland midfielder down.

A penalty was quickly awarded and Baltimore, despite the massed ranks of United fans behind the goal trying to distract her, coolly beat goalkeeper Phallon Tullis-Joyce from the spot.

An improved United had their chances to equalise early in the second half and even the introduction of England star Ella Toone off the bench could not bring the Cup-holders a goal.

And any hopes of a United fight back were dashed by Macario and Baltimore's late goals.

Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner said patience paid off against Manchester City in the FA Cup final on Saturday as he celebrated the club's first major trophy.

Eberechi Eze scored in the 16th-minute at Wembley before an inspired Dean Henderson saved Omar Marmoush's penalty.

City, also defeated in the final by Manchester United last year, enjoyed nearly 80 percent of possession but could not break through.

"I can't believe it, we had to defend so much," said Glasner.

"The spirit and togetherness on the pitch was amazing.

"It was all about being patient, we analysed that if you give them the pocket then they are so good.

"We had to be patient, let them cross, defend and wait for the moment to attack."

Glasner said Palace had learned from a heavy loss against City in the Premier League last month.

"They are so good in their movements, from the 5-2 defeat we learned that if you give them the pocket we will lose," said the Austrian.

"We usually attack more but we had to be patient and wait for the right moment.

"When they play with four attacking players it's difficult to defend, but in transition we knew we could create overloads. No winger likes to defend. It was a great goal."

Glasner said Sunday's training was cancelled and the players want to scrap Monday's training as well.

"Special credit to the players, they've never lost belief in me and the coaching staff," he said.

Pep Guardiola admitted his post-match clash with Dean Henderson was fuelled by frustration at the Crystal Palace goalkeeper's time-wasting during Manchester City's shock 1-0 defeat in the FA Cup final on Saturday.

For just the second time in Guardiola's managerial career he will end the season without a major trophy after a controversial loss capped a miserable season for his side.

Henderson was fortunate to escape a red card for handling outside the penalty area in the first half before he went on to save a penalty from Omar Marmoush at Wembley.

Guardiola pointedly said "don't ask me, ask the VAR and the referee" when quizzed on the decision not to send off Henderson for denying Erling Haaland a goal-scoring opportunity with his handball.

But, while he kept his emotions relatively under control over that incident, the City boss let rip at Henderson for his constant time-wasting that played a role in 10 minutes of stoppage-time in the second half.

Guardiola appeared to exchange angry words with Henderson on the pitch after the final whistle and was still frustrated in his post-match press conference.

"Listen, he defended his position, we defended our position. I understand in the last minutes, but since the first or second minutes? He's British, you know, in the English football, you have to play," Guardiola said.

"I'm sorry, everyone can do whatever they want. We have to score goals. We didn't lose because Henderson was time-wasting. But it's a question of rhythm for the players.

"It's a game for all the fans. So, when you see Barcelona now, they're losing and it's attack, attack. And the other team, attack, attack. The show is beautiful.

"I understand Henderson's position. I don't feel it. So, my teams have never tried because I try to play the game like the people deserve to watch. That's all."

'IT IS DIFFICULT TO COME BACK'

On the heated discussion with Guardiola, England 'keeper Henderson added: "I just went to shake his hand but obviously I think he was disappointed with the time-wasting. I said, 'You got your 10 minutes you were wanting'. No hard feelings."

City had nearly 80 percent possession and 23 shots but failed to make it count as they lost a second successive FA Cup final following last season's defeat against Manchester United.

"We didn't score, so congratulations Crystal Palace for the victory. They played a good defensive game," Guardiola said.

"We controlled the transitions apart from the goal. With 11 players in the penalty box for them, we created a lot.

"Every action Palace took time, the goal-kicks, the rhythm, it is difficult to come back. The chances were there but it was difficult to score.

"We were really good in many things. But we didn't score and that's why we didn't win."

Guardiola confirmed it was not his choice for Marmoush to take the spot-kick over City's normal taker Haaland.

The Norwegian, who had missed three penalties earlier this season, had the ball in his hands before passing it to Marmoush.

"They decided on the pitch, so I don't know. I didn't speak with them," Guardiola said.

"In that moment it is how you are feeling. They decided Omar would take it. Henderson made a good save."

Crystal Palace beat Manchester City 1-0 in the FA Cup final at Wembley on Saturday to win the first major trophy in the club's history.

England midfielder Eberechi Eze scored in the 16th minute and Palace goalkeeper Dean Henderson saved an Omar Marmoush penalty as City lost the Wembley showpiece for the second season in a row.

𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐋𝐎𝐍𝐆 𝐖𝐀𝐈𝐓 𝐈𝐒 𝐎𝐕𝐄𝐑 🦅🚨

Crystal Palace are #EmiratesFACup Champions for the first time 🏆🎉#SSFACup | #FACup pic.twitter.com/JaWfXIfsyD

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) May 17, 2025

While Eze's clinical finish was the culmination of his remarkable rise from rejection by Arsenal, Fulham and Millwall as a youngster, it was Henderson who emerged as Palace's hero with a series of superb saves.

City will protest that Henderson should have been sent off for a first-half handball outside his penalty area.

But Henderson made the most of that controversial moment to ensure Palace clinched the first major trophy in their 120-year history and a place in next season's Europa League.

Beaten by Manchester United in their previous FA Cup final appearances in 1990 and 2016, Palace's shock win was no more than they deserved as City once again imploded in a dismal season that will be their first without major silverware since 2016-17.

After winning the Premier League in the previous four seasons, City have endured a turbulent campaign that ranks among the worst in Guardiola's storied managerial career.

Currently sixth in the Premier League, City host Bournemouth on Tuesday and travel to Fulham on May 25 as they try to salvage their wretched year by at least qualifying for the Champions League.

Guardiola had questioned his players' hunger as they failed to keep pace with Liverpool in the title race and crashed out of the Champions League.

While desire might not have been an issue against Palace, City's lack of direction in their second successive FA Cup final defeat was an alarming sign for the future as Guardiola was out-witted by Eagles boss Oliver Glasner.

Not for the first time, Guardiola sprang a surprise with his selection for a final as he picked an ultra-attacking line-up with no holding midfielder.

-GUARDIOLA GAMBLE BACKFIRES

However, Guardiola's habit of tinkering with his tactics for finals has backfired in the past.

Asked about City's line-up just before kick-off, Guardiola said he was putting his faith in "talent", but Glasner had spotted an opening, saying: "When you have so many attacking players it could give you an opportunity in transitions."

Erling Haaland nearly gave City the perfect start when he stretched to meet Kevin De Bruyne's cross with a volley that forced a scrambled save from Henderson.

Josko Gvardiol's towering header from Savinho's corner was smartly repelled by Henderson.

But Glasner's clever decision to set up Palace deep inside their own half had lured City in for the sucker punch.

Eze delivered the knockout blow from Palace's first attack in the 16th minute as Glasner's men launched a brilliant break from their penalty area.

Jean-Philippe Mateta held up Chris Richards' long pass and laid it off to Daniel Munoz, who surged down the right flank before crossing towards Eze, who guided a superb volley past Stefan Ortega from 12 yards.

City were furious when Henderson escaped a red card when VAR checked his handball, which appeared to take place outside the area, after the 'keeper rushed out to challenge Haaland.

VAR said it was "not an obvious goal-scoring opportunity" but it proved crucial as Henderson rescued Palace in the 35th minute.

Tyrick Mitchell conceded the penalty with a needless foul on Bernardo Silva as the City midfielder ran away from goal.

Instead of Haaland taking the spot-kick, it was Marmoush who stepped up after the Norway star gave him the ball in a disastrous move as Henderson plunged to his right to keep out the Egyptian's strike.

Henderson was in inspired form and he denied City again, clawing away a Jeremy Doku strike that appeared destined for the top corner.

Defending tirelessly, Palace were indebted to Henderson, who made two more brilliant saves from Claudio Echeverri to cap a chastening afternoon for Guardiola.

Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner believes winning Saturday's FA Cup final will mean more to his club than their Wembley opponents, Manchester City.

Pep Guardiola will be leading City in search of the 19th trophy of his glittering reign, while Palace have never won major silverware in their history.

The unfashionable south London club have twice lost in the FA Cup final against Manchester United in 1990 and 2016.

Palace's third appearance in the showpiece comes against a City team amid their worst season for eight years.

Glasner knows City are desperate to avoid a first season without silverware since 2016-17, but he claims victory would be sweet for the Eagles.

"If something is the first time in your life, then maybe it means more to you then when you have it every single year," Glasner told reporters on Friday.

"Under Pep, how many trophies they have won, how many City have, how many finals they have played, it's definitely more than Crystal Palace have.

"Still, for the players, for a manager, for a club, winning a trophy is always something great in a season.

"So I don't expect that they will wave the white flag and then say, 'OK, it's a first title for Crystal Palace, you should get it.' I think they will fight to win it."

Glasner expects influential midfielder Adam Wharton to feature at Wembley after he was ruled out of Sunday's Premier League win at Tottenham.

SOME PUNDITS BACK PALACE

Palace can take heart from their spirited 2-2 draw against City at Selhurst Park in the Premier League in December.

Guardiola's men fought back to earn a 5-2 victory in the rematch at the Etihad Stadium in April.

But Palace's impressive 3-0 win over Aston Villa in the semifinals has led some pundits to back them to shock City on Saturday.

And Glasner sees no reason why Palace can not upset the odds at Wembley.

"It's football. So many things can happen, but we want to do it in our way. We will do it in our way, and then I think we have the best chances to win the final," he said.

"I think City will do the same. This is why 90 000 will watch, and I don't know how many millions more on TV, because nobody knows the result, but we feel ready to win it."

Kevin De Bruyne can add another honour to his haul as Manchester City's most decorated player of all time with a fitting farewell in Saturday's FA Cup final against Crystal Palace.

The Belgian's trophy-littered decade in Manchester will come to an end at the conclusion of the Premier League season.

But Wembley's showpiece is the 33-year-old's final chance to lift silverware at the club where he grew into one of world's best players.

A six-time Premier League winner, De Bruyne could add a third FA Cup to his five League Cups and 2023 Champions League win with City.

King Kev's iconic mural unveiled 👑

The installation which started on Monday morning and completed on Wednesday afternoon, features every trophy he has won during his 10 years at City 🏆

— Manchester City (@ManCity) May 14, 2025

He has expressed his "surprise" that City did not seek to extend his stay, filled with the belief that he can still perform at the highest level.

De Bruyne rolled back the years when City rallied from 2-0 down to thrash Palace 5-2 just last month with a goal and an assist.

City will be hoping for more of the same to give him a fitting farewell and save some face from a season to forget for Pep Guardiola's men.

After an unprecedented run of four consecutive Premier League titles, City are 18 points adrift of champions Liverpool and embroiled in a battle just to finish in the top five to secure a place in next season's Champions League.

De Bruyne's decline has played a factor in City's downturn.

Of his 108 goals and 177 assists for the club in 419 appearances, only six and eight respectively have come this season.

'LEAVE LIKE A CHAMPION'

However, he remains "irreplaceable" due to his impact in City's rise to being the dominant force in English football, according to the club's prolific striker Erling Haaland.

"To get the balls from him is a dream," said Haaland. "It has been really special playing with him. Such a joy, and I am going to do everything I can to have this joy in the last few games.

"The future will be different with different players. When Kevin leaves we will need someone to replace him, although Kevin is irreplaceable in so many ways."

Guardiola has appeared almost apologetic for overlooking De Bruyne at times this season as he searched for solutions to fill the gaps in City's ageing midfield.

"The gratitude I have, we have, is huge," said Guardiola.

"Kevin is the player in the history of the club with the most titles and that defines what Kevin has done with us."

A giant mural of De Bruyne alongside his trophy haul as a City player was unveiled in Manchester city centre on Thursday.

Guardiola has suggested a statue outside the club's Etihad Stadium is also just a matter of time.

But after a decade most characterised by a relentless thirst to keep on winning, the most fitting tribute would be for De Bruyne to go out with another medal around his neck.

"The whole team only has one thought and that’s to try and get the trophy and to make the day special for Kevin," said City midfielder Mateo Kovacic.

"For what he’s done, he deserves to leave like a champion which he obviously is.

"He is a massive figure in City’s success, and he will be remembered as one of the best."

History beckons for Crystal Palace at Wembley in Saturday's FA Cup final as Manchester City have one final shot at avoiding a rare trophyless season under Pep Guardiola.

Twice FA Cup runners-up, Palace have never won a major trophy in their 119-year history.

Messages ahead of the final ❤️💙#CPFC

— Crystal Palace F.C. (@CPFC) May 15, 2025

The Eagles sense this may finally be their time up against a City side far from their former glories of Guardiola's trophy-laden reign.

Palace warmed up for the Wembley showpiece by cruising to a 2-0 win at Tottenham last weekend to equal their record of 49 Premier League points with two games of the season to spare.

The south London club finished in the top 10 for the first time in the Premier League era last season after just a few months under Oliver Glasner.

Another top half finish looks unlikely, but progress has continued under the Austrian thanks to their FA Cup heroics, including a comprehensive 3-0 victory over Champions League quarterfinalists Aston Villa in the last four.

Eberechi Eze is the main man for City to fear with five goals in his last four games.

But he is one of just four England internationals that reached the final of Euro 2024 likely to start for Palace on Saturday alongside Dean Henderson, Marc Guehi and Adam Wharton.

"It means everything," said Eze on the prospect of delivering the club's first taste of silverware.

"We know what it means to the fans, to the club. We're going to give everything that we've got to put ourselves in the best position.

"We're confident. We know that we've just got to do what we do and be the best version of ourselves and we've got the chance of beating any team."

Victory would also secure entry to one of Europe's major club competitions for the first time in Palace's history with a place in the Europa League at stake.

HAALAND FIT FOR THE FINAL

City's laboured display in drawing a blank at bottom-of-the-table Southampton last weekend gave Palace even more reason to believe.

However, Guardiola's men are unbeaten in 10 games, including a 5-2 demolition of Palace in the Premier League last month despite falling 2-0 behind.

City's fightback at the Etihad Stadium that day was sparked by Kevin De Bruyne rolling back the years.

The Belgian has just three games left as a City player after a glorious decade in Manchester and will be aiming to add one more to his 14 major honours with the club.

"He has had an incredible time at Manchester City," said City's top scorer Erling Haaland.

"It is ridiculous how many trophies he has won. Hopefully he will get one more trophy."

After an unprecedented four consecutive English top-flight titles, City find themselves battling just to secure a top-five Premier League finish and a place in next season's Champions League.

Anything other than victory would cap what Haaland described as a "horrendous" campaign for a squad of serial winners.

City have not ended a season without a trophy since Guardiola's first at the club in 2016/17.

"It is a good habit to reach Wembley and always important to win trophies. We have the FA Cup final to play for and in a horrific season we still managed to do this," added the Norwegian.

Haaland is expected to start after making his comeback from six weeks out injured at Southampton last weekend.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola is glad to have Spain midfielder Rodri back in training but has no idea yet if he'll feature at all in this month's FA Cup final, saying "I'm not a doctor".

Rodri was expected to miss the rest of the season after suffering a serious knee injury rupturing an anterior cruciate ligament in City's 2-2 draw with Arsenal in September.

The 28-year-old Ballon d'or winner's absence has been a key factor in a City slump that ended their unprecedented run of four successive English top-flight titles, with Liverpool already crowned champions for the 2024/25 Premier League season.

City, however, have recovered to fourth in the table and are on course to qualify for the Champions League with a top-five finish.

Guardiola's men will also play Crystal Palace in their third straight FA Cup final at Wembley on 17 May after defeating fellow Premier League side Nottingham Forest 2-0 in last weekend's semifinals.

"We are really pleased that Rodri is back in the training sessions," Guardiola told reporters on Thursday during a pre-match press conference ahead of Friday's league game at home to Wolves.

"The moment the physio and doctor says, 'Rodri can start to play minutes', and after that he will start to play minutes. But the doctors have to tell me."

The Spaniard added: "It was a difficult injury, seven to 11 months the doctors.

"He feels really good every day making sessions and sessions, but we have to avoid making a step backwards or getting injured again. That's why you have to be careful.

"The important (thing) is one training session, another one, and every time he feels better and better. And when the doctor says 'Rodri is stable and he can start to play', after that he is going to come back."

Guardiola, pressed on whether Rodri would play any part in the FA Cup final against south London side Palace, insisted: "I am not a doctor."

Following the semifinal win over Forest, it was suggested to Guardiola that a combination of FA Cup glory and Champions League qualification would constitute a "successful" campaign.

But he replied: "No, and I have said that many times.

"This season has not been good. We are a thousand million points behind Liverpool, so come on, this season has not been good."

City are 21 points behind Liverpool in the league and one point clear of Chelsea and Forest, who also have a game in hand, in the race for the top five places.

"Being in another final speaks so highly about the volume of generation of players and this club. And we are very pleased we are in the final," added Guardiola, who has won the FA Cup twice in his City reign, following the last-four win over Forest.

"But the season is defined by the Premier League and being consistent and this season that couldn't happen."

Manchester City will face Crystal Palace in their third successive FA Cup final after cruising to a 2-0 win against Nottingham Forest at Wembley on Sunday.

Pep Guardiola's side took an early lead through Rico Lewis and Josko Gvardiol's second-half goal sealed a comfortable semifinal success.

City can look forward to a showdown with Palace at Wembley on May 17 after the Eagles won 3-0 against Aston Villa in the other semifinal on Saturday.

Their 14th FA Cup final appearance gives City a chance to win the competition for the eighth time and the third since Guardiola arrived in 2016.

Our third successive #FACup final 🔜#ManCity pic.twitter.com/lHTFQfbjhF

— Manchester City (@ManCity) April 27, 2025

City lost to Manchester United in last season's FA Cup final after beating their cross-town rivals in the 2023 showpiece.

Guardiola is hoping to salvage a turbulent season by lifting the FA Cup and qualifying for the Champions League via a top five finish in the Premier League.

City, who sit fourth in the league with four games left, will go into the final as favourites after thrashing Palace 5-2 at the Etihad Stadium earlier in April.

But nothing has come easy for City this season and Guardiola will need no reminding of that after their four-year reign as English champions was officially ended by Liverpool's win against Tottenham at the exact moment the final whistle blew at Wembley.

Forest, only two points adrift of third-placed Newcastle with a game in hand, have to lick their wounds and focus on their bid to reach the Champions League for the first time since 1980-81.

It was City's 28th trip to Wembley since it reopened in 2007 and just Forest's second.

So it was no surprise the Forest hordes who made the trip were far more vocal as kick-off approached, while swathes of empty seats stood out in the City sections.

But it wasn't long before City's fans made themselves heard as they stormed into the lead in the second minute.

SLICK CITY

Guardiola had claimed this week that City will be much stronger next season because they have finally rediscovered their spirit and passion.

The City boss was encouraged by his players' wild celebrations of Bernardo Silva's early goal in a crucial 2-1 win against Villa on Wednesday and once again they made a fast start.

After a probing spell of City passing, Lewis was given far too much space on the edge of the Forest area and he took full advantage with a fierce drive into the bottom corner.

You love to see it 🤩 pic.twitter.com/bHJ1FQiFsz

— Manchester City (@ManCity) April 27, 2025

City's pressing was too intense for Forest to handle and Nico O'Reilly waltzed through the Forest defence for a blast that fizzed just wide.

With Neco Williams suspended and Ola Aina and Ryan Yates injured, Forest boss Nuno Espirito Santo had gambled on 18-year-old Zach Abbott at right-back, while Anthony Elanga was surprisingly left on the bench.

For much of the first half, Nuno's moves backfired, with Abbott – who had played just 60 minutes this season – repeatedly exposed by City's attacks and Forest lacking a cutting edge without Elanga.

Forest failed to muster a single shot in the first half and had only one touch inside the City area.

Nuno sent on Elanga at the interval and the winger should have marked his 23rd birthday with a goal when he lashed wide from Callum Hudson-Odoi's pass.

But City showed the ruthless streak that Forest lacked in the 51st minute.

Matheus Nunes' effort was pushed away for a corner by Matz Sels and from Omar Marmoush's set-piece, Gvardiol was left virtually unchallenged as he rose highest to head home.

Gvardiol doubles the lead for Man City 🔵

City are on the verge of a #EmiratesFACup final berth 🤞

📺 Stream on DStv: https://t.co/wfEMHZgK4y

pic.twitter.com/zI2uJVN1ww

— SuperSport 🏆 (@SuperSportTV) April 27, 2025

Forest's Morgan Gibbs-White crashed a volley off the crossbar, then clipped another effort off the post.

Taiwo Awoniyi also hit the woodwork for Forest with a back-heeled flick.

But it was too little, too late as City celebrated a victory that keeps alive their bid to avoid a first trophyless season since 2016-17.

Crystal Palace reached the FA Cup final for the first time in nine years as Ismaila Sarr's double and a rocket from Eberechi Eze sealed a 3-0 win against Aston Villa at Wembley on Saturday.

Oliver Glasner's side took the lead in the semifinal through Eze's long-range blast before Sarr netted twice in the second half.

In the final on 17 May, Palace will face Nottingham Forest or Manchester City, who meet in the second semifinal on Sunday.

We’ll see you again soon, Wembley 🦅 #CPFC pic.twitter.com/XfCQmk5L3I

— Crystal Palace F.C. (@CPFC) April 26, 2025

The Eagles have never won the FA Cup, losing their two final appearances against Manchester United in 2016 and 1990.

"All the credit to the players. They had to work so hard. They had to overcome a few difficult moments," Glasner said.

"We got more control and it was an unbelievable performance. The players stuck to the plan and we never lost our heads.

"I don't know at the moment how I feel -- a bit exhausted. The players have four days off now. They should enjoy the moment."

Villa, who last won the FA Cup in 1957, were hoping to make the final for the first time since 2015.

But Unai Emery's team produced a dismal display and will have to settle for fighting to qualify for the Champions League via a top five finish in the Premier League.

"When they scored the first goal it was more difficult for us and we only reacted after 2-0 and then we created more chances to score and we didn't do. In transition they are very good, and they deserve to win," Emery said.

"Sorry to our supporters because they were motivated. We have to accept it. We have to be quick to react because in the league we have the most important objective."

SARR SPARKLES

Jean-Philippe Mateta had the ball in the back of the net just before the half-hour mark, but it was chalked off after a VAR check confirmed the Palace striker had fouled Ezri Konsa in the build-up.

There was no such doubt about Eze's opener, however, after Sarr got in the way of Pau Torres' pass, then collected the resulting ricochet to the right of the Villa area.

Sarr found Eze and the midfielder curled a superb strike beyond the reach of Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez.

Ebere Eze is a mad man 🥶🎯

He whips it past Martinez for the semi-final opener 😤

📺 Stream #EmiratesFACup on DStv: https://t.co/B0jLrQW5cc pic.twitter.com/2P7yjMEVUg

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) April 26, 2025

Torres looked for an instant reply when he nodded just over the crossbar.

Konsa came closer, forcing Dean Henderson into a low save with a header of his own from a corner.

Villa piled on more pressure after the restart when Henderson made another fine save to deny John McGinn's sharp volley, then Lucas Digne fired narrowly wide through a crowd of players.

Palace were awarded a 53rd-minute penalty after Eze was tugged down by Boubacar Kamara and Mateta stepped up to the spot after a VAR check, but his shot clipped the post and went wide.

Just as Villa started to gain momentum, Adam Wharton intercepted a pass and, after a quick touch from Mateta, Sarr fired into the bottom corner.

This, just this... pic.twitter.com/OtYteul2l1

— Crystal Palace F.C. (@CPFC) April 26, 2025

Henderson repelled a blast from Villa substitute Leon Bailey, moments after Mateta slid in to deny Ross Barkley.

Sarr nodded Eze's cross off target, while Matty Cash's attempt to claw a late goal back for Villa sailed wide.

Sarr put the seal on Palace's impressive performance in stoppage-time, outpacing Konsa before slotting home to send the Eagles into the final.

🫡 pic.twitter.com/BoGNmoTFwh

— Crystal Palace F.C. (@CPFC) April 26, 2025

Unai Emery has set his sights on leading Aston Villa to their first FA Cup triumph since 1957 and completing a memorable end to the season by qualifying for the Champions League.

Villa's pursuit of a top five finish in the Premier League will be put on hold as they head to Wembley to face Crystal Palace in the FA Cup semifinals on Saturday.

Emery is trying to end Villa's 29-year trophy drought, dating back to their 1996 League Cup success, while also making sure they fulfil their European ambitions.

Asked whether winning the FA Cup for the first time in 68 years is more important than Champions League qualification, Emery told reporters: "When you start the season you are trying to set objectives through four competitions – the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup and Carabao Cup.

"We are now still in two competitions. We are focusing in each match trying to get our best, and to be in Europe is one clear objective we have.

"The first way to get Europe is through the Premier League, but also getting the trophy in the FA Cup.

"Now, we can't choose only one competition. We are choosing both competitions strongly because we have two ways for our positive season to end."

The FA Cup represents a chance for Emery's first trophy in English football and victory over Palace would clinch their first appearance in the final since 2015.

"As a coach my challenge when I arrived here was to get some trophies along the way," he said.

"We have an opportunity because we are in the semifinal, but there is a lot of work to do.

"When you are getting experiences and getting trophies, the most important thing I learned and I enjoyed, was the way and not the end.

"I want to enjoy the semifinal, everything we are going to do. Travelling to London, being together, preparing the match, the atmosphere in Wembley."

Emery's only previous visit to Wembley as a manager was when he was in charge at Arsenal, playing against Tottenham in a league match while Spurs' new stadium was being built.

"I like it, and tomorrow I will enjoy it. Of course, I have a huge responsibility to try to respond in good way with the players," he said of returning to the iconic national stadium.

"But I'm so excited playing matches like tomorrow, and the possibility we will have."

Manchester City came from behind to reach the FA Cup semifinals with a 2-1 win over Bournemouth on Sunday, but victory came at a cost as Erling Haaland hobbled off injured.

Haaland had seen a first-half penalty saved before Evanilson put the Cherries in front.

The Norwegian made amends by equalising four minutes into the second period before being forced off with an ankle injury.

His replacement, Omar Marmoush, took just two minutes to score the winner from a second assist by the impressive Nico O'Reilly.

✅- Crystal Palace
✅- Forest
✅- Aston Villa
✅- Man City

The last four of the 2024/25 #EmiratesFACup is complete 🔒#SSFACup pic.twitter.com/mDGf8W8BnL

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) March 30, 2025

City will face Nottingham Forest in the last four after reaching the semifinals for a record seventh consecutive season.

Pep Guardiola said even FA Cup glory would not save a miserable season for the English champions with this competition their final shot at winning a trophy.

City's collapse in the Premier League began at Bournemouth back in November with a 2-1 defeat that kicked off a run of six defeats in eight games.

Bournemouth were without two of their stars of a fine season as defenders Dean Huijsen and Milos Kerkez were suspended.

And Haaland should have punished a makeshift Cherries backline with a hat-trick before halftime.

He headed wide his first chance from Matheus Nunes' driven cross.

A Tyler Adams handball then gifted City the chance to take the lead from the penalty spot.

But for the third time in his last six spot-kicks, Haaland failed to find the net as Kepa Arrizabalaga made a fine save.

Erling Haaland misses from the spot 😲❌

📺 Stream #EmiratesFACup on DStv: https://t.co/B0jLrQW5cc pic.twitter.com/oBLV7uUQ3u

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) March 30, 2025

That miss seemed to be still in Haaland's mind when he dinked over Kepa and over the bar with just the Spanish goalkeeper to beat moments later.

City were then hit with a sucker punch by Bournemouth on 21 minutes.

Nunes, deputising in an unfamiliar right-back role, gave the ball away to David Brooks, whose cross was turned across goal by Justin Kluivert and bundled in from point-blank range by Evanilson.

13' Haaland penalty miss ❌
➖
21' Bournemouth take the lead 🍒💣

📺 Stream #EmiratesFACup on DStv: https://t.co/B0jLrQW5cc pic.twitter.com/KJW9MHcent

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) March 30, 2025

Guardiola responded by introducing 20-year-old midfielder O'Reilly as a makeshift left-back.

O'Reilly made an instant impact with a rampaging run down the left and inch-perfect cross as this time Haaland did not miss for his 30th goal of the season.

Erling Haaland 🤝 Nico O'Reilly

Man City are right back into this as Haaland equalised early in the second half 🔵💥

📺 Stream #EmiratesFACup on DStv: https://t.co/B0jLrQW5cc pic.twitter.com/GydhaCEgbg

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) March 30, 2025

Moments later he was forced off in concerning scenes for Guardiola with City still involved in a battle just to qualify for next season's Champions League in their last nine Premier League games.

But City's January transfer window move for Marmoush is already looking a shrewd deal.

The Egyptian has now scored six times in 11 appearances since a £59 million ($76 million) transfer from Eintracht Frankfurt.

Omar Marmoush scores within two minutes of coming on 🔵💥

📺 Stream #EmiratesFACup on DStv: https://t.co/B0jLrQW5cc pic.twitter.com/VEcAbgS2DU

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) March 30, 2025

If Kepa was a Bournemouth hero in the first-half, he was at fault for the winner as Marmoush's effort slipped through his grasp from O'Reilly's pass.

City should have been more comfortable winners as Kepa denied James McAtee a third goal late on.

Guardiola's joy, though, was unconfined at fulltime as he celebrated with shrieks of delight as a difficult season could yet still end in more City silverware.

Marcus Rashford's first goals for Aston Villa inspired a 3-0 win against Preston that sent his side into the FA Cup semifinals for the first time in 10 years on Sunday.

Rashford struck twice in the second half at Deepdale to end Preston's stubborn resistence before Jacob Ramsey wrapped up Villa's long-awaited return to the last four.

Revitalised since joining Villa on loan from Manchester United during the January transfer window, Rashford is beginning to show the form that made him one of England's brightest stars prior to his steep decline over the last two years.

Aston Villa put their name into the #EmiratesFACup semi-final draw ✅⚽#SSFACup pic.twitter.com/DnpzgFL0Mu

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) March 30, 2025

Amid concerns over his attitude and off-field behaviour, Rashford was deemed expendable by United manager Ruben Amorim, after also clashing with former Old Trafford boss Erik ten Hag.

The 27-year-old hadn't scored since netting for United against Everton on December 1.

Deployed in the central striker's role that often seemed to dent his confidence at United, Rashford was too dynamic for second-tier Preston to handle in the latest sign that his career might not be destined to end in disappointment after all.

While struggling United have been mired in turmoil, Rashford has benefited from moving to upwardly mobile Villa.

Emery's side have enjoyed a memorable run to the Champions League quarterfinals, where they face Paris Saint-Germain in April.

They also have an outside chance of qualifying for next season's Champions League.

Rashford could be part of a memorable climax to the campaign for Villa, who haven't won the FA Cup since 1957, with their last final ending in defeat against Arsenal in 2015.

57' Preston 0-0 Aston Villa
➖
63' Preston 0-2 Aston Villa

A five-minute brace from Rashford puts Villa in control 😏

📺 Stream #EmiratesFACup on DStv: https://t.co/B0jLrQW5cc pic.twitter.com/JT8k7faHsx

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) March 30, 2025

Nottingham Forest and Crystal Palace booked their places in the Wembley semifinals on Saturday, with Manchester City travelling to Bournemouth for the last quarterfinal later on Sunday.

Sitting 14th in the Championship, Preston were playing in the quarterfinals for the first time since 1966.

Paul Heckingbottom's side were unbeaten in their previous 15 home games in all competitions, but the 1889 and 1938 FA Cup winners were no match for ruthless Villa.

Rashford's free-kick forced Preston goalkeeper David Cornell into action before Ezri Konsa's glancing header whistled just wide from Marco Asensio's cross.

Stefan Thordarson wasted a golden opportunity to give Preston a shock lead when he poked wide.

Rashford was equally profligate after halftime, shooting straight at Cornell from inside the area.

But Villa broke the deadlock in the 58th minute as Rashford timed his run perfectly to meet Lucas Digne's low cross with a clinical finish from 12 yards.

The goal drought is over 🔥

Marcus Rashford scores his first goal for Aston Villa 🦁⚽

📺 Stream #EmiratesFACup on DStv: https://t.co/B0jLrQW5cc pic.twitter.com/WVOWYg3Xcw

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) March 30, 2025

Morgan Rogers was denied by Cornell moments later as Villa went for the kill.

And it was Rogers who earned Villa's penalty in the 63rd minute when the England midfielder was tripped by Andrew Hughes.

Rashford stepped up to send Cornell the wrong way with a nerveless spot-kick.

Ramsey put the result beyond doubt eight minutes later, surging towards the Preston area and drilling a powerful strike past Cornell for his fourth goal this season.

Eberechi Eze's quality was key to Crystal Palace's clinical 3-0 victory at Fulham on Saturday, manager Oliver Glasner said after the winger scored and assisted to lead his side into the FA Cup semifinals for the first time since 2022.

Eze, who scored his first England goal against Latvia on Monday, whipped in a brilliant opener against the run of play in the 34th minute to stun the home crowd at Craven Cottage before setting up Ismaila Sarr for Palace's second.

The 26-year-old has scored six goals and provided nine assists in 31 matches across all competitions for Palace this season.

"I told him that this goal helped us a lot today because we got more and more belief. It was so fundamental (and a result of) his individual quality," Glasner told reporters.

"I think Ebere has had a strange season, he hasn't had many goals in the Premier League and he has been unlucky, but he keeps going, he's also struggled with strange injuries.

"The goal against Latvia and his first for England means a lot for him. He always has the confidence, we know he's an amazing finisher to cut inside on his right foot with an amazing finish.

"We need this quality, he helped us today massively."

Glasner said it was just the start of Palace's crunch period as they eye a top-half Premier League finish.

While the London side visit struggling Southampton on Wednesday, they face a tough set of fixtures until the end of the Premier League season, including matches against Manchester City, Newcastle, Arsenal and Liverpool.

Palace are currently 12th in the Premier League table with 10 games to go.

"We are in a good moment and the players are in a good shape. We need to perform at our best to win as many games as possible. In the league, we have the opportunity to enter the top half. It's good to have all the players together now," Glasner added.

Nottingham Forest manager Nuno Espirito Santo said it was a big moment for the club to reach their first FA Cup semifinals in 34 years after they beat fellow Premier League side Brighton & Hove Albion on penalties on Saturday.

Goalkeeper Matz Sels and midfielder Ryan Yates proved to be Forest heroes as they knocked out Brighton 4-3 in a penalty shootout after the game finished goalless following extra time at the Amex Stadium.

Belgian Sels saved successive spot-kicks from Brighton duo Jack Hinshelwood and Diego Gomez, while captain Yates scored the decisive penalty for the visitors to send them to Wembley.

"We are so happy, all of us. It was a dream seeing our fans like that. There is nothing better," Nuno told the club's website.

"In terms of the performance I think the boys did really well, really well. We controlled the midfield and I think we were dominant against a team that is difficult to control and credit to the team for that.

"To win is a huge moment for all of us and especially Ryan Yates, he's a one club man, club captain."

It also marked a third straight FA Cup penalty shootout victory for Forest, having knocked out Exeter City and Ipswich Town on penalties in the earlier rounds.

Sels said it was a moment to enjoy.

"We had a few chances to score in the game but we went to penalties and I did my research which was good to help the team," Sels added.

"Over the last few weeks we have worked on penalties; it's different in training of course and there is more pressure in the match. I'm happy to help the team and save two penalties.

"The guys did the rest and I'm really proud of them and we'll look forward to another game in this competition.

"It's been a few years since the supporters have been to a semifinal so we'll look forward to it as a team, hopefully we can go there and do something greater."

Nottingham Forest reached the FA Cup semifinals for the first time in 34 years as Belgian keeper Matz Sels starred in a 4-3 penalty shoot-out win over Brighton on Saturday.

After the quarterfinal clash at the Amex Stadium finished 0-0 following extra-time, Sels took centre-stage to send Forest to Wembley.

Nottingham Forest join Crystal Palace in the first two places of the #EmiratesFACup final four ✅#SSFACup pic.twitter.com/c23rLRD1IU

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) March 29, 2025

Sels saved spot-kicks from Jack Hinshelwood and Diego Gomez and, although Forest's Neco Williams blazed over, Ryan Yates held his nerve to stroke home the winner.

Ryan Yates seals it for Nottingham Forest 😤🔴

They're on their way to Wembley for the #EmiratesFACup semis 🔜#SSFACup pic.twitter.com/2tYAB98ib1

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) March 29, 2025

Forest also needed shoot-outs to get past third-tier Exeter and top-flight strugglers Ipswich in the fourth and fifth rounds respectively this season.

Nuno Espirito Santo's side are enjoying a remarkable season that could culminate in Champions League qualification and a first FA Cup final appearance since 1991.

Forest, who last won the FA Cup in 1959, have climbed to third in the Premier League, leaving them within touching distance of appearing in the Champions League for the first time since 1980-81.

They are five points clear of fourth-placed Chelsea and six ahead of fifth-placed Manchester City with nine games to go.

Brian Clough's men were the last Forest team to make the FA Cup semifinals, beating West Ham before losing the final to Tottenham.

Forest join Crystal Palace in the last four after the Eagles won 3-0 at Fulham in Saturday's other quarterfinal.

On Sunday, Manchester City travel to Bournemouth and Aston Villa visit Championship side Preston, the last club from outside the top tier in this season's tournament.

Forest crushed Brighton 7-0 at the City Ground in Premier League in February, a result that ranked as the Seagulls' heaviest defeat for 67 years.

Since that humbling loss, Brighton had won four times in a five-game unbeaten run in the league, but they were unable to stop Forest's penalty mastery.

Nuno surprisingly dropped wingers Callum Hudson-Odoi and Anthony Elanga to the bench in a move that appeared to prioritise Tuesday's league clash with Manchester United.

Forest were also without Chris Wood after their leading scorer suffered a hip injury on international duty with New Zealand.

Wood's replacement Taiwo Awoniyi went close to an early opener, accelerating on to Ola Aina's pass for a stinging strike that Bart Verbruggen saved at his near post.

But, shorn of their best attacking options, Forest struggled to make headway after that.

Brighton were hardly much more incisive, with Pervis Estupinan's long-range blast pushed away by Sels.

Carlos Baleba was inches away from putting the Seagulls ahead on the stroke of halftime, lashing just wide from the edge of the area.

Hopefully that camera is insured 🤣🎥

Brighton and Forest are still deadlocked at the half-time break 🔒

📺 Stream #EmiratesFACup on DStv: https://t.co/B0jLrQW5cc pic.twitter.com/elLzvnx4RV

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) March 29, 2025

After their tepid start, Forest finally showed signs of life when Morgan Gibbs-White's strike from distance forced a superb save from Verbruggen.

But Nuno had seen enough and sent on Hudson-Odoi and Elanga.

Verbruggen repelled Elanga's close-range effort to force the tie into extra-time.

Gomez nearly won it for Brighton in the closing stages, but his header from Brajan Gruda's cross was brilliantly saved by Sels, foreshadowing the keeper's heroics in the shoot-out.

Eberechi Eze inspired Crystal Palace to a 3-0 FA Cup quarterfinal win at Fulham on Saturday with a goal and assist in a four-minute period in the first half.

Fresh from scoring his first England goal against Latvia on Monday, Eze broke the deadlock with a stunning strike from outside the box.

He then turned provider for Ismaila Sarr to rapidly double Palace's lead and Eddie Nketiah added more gloss to the scoreline as a second-half substitute.

Crystal Palace are on their way to another #EmiratesFACup semi-final 🤩🔝#SSFACup pic.twitter.com/9J38yHjEHq

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) March 29, 2025

After a difficult start to the season, Palace are one of England's form teams as Oliver Glasner's men have also marched up the Premier League table to 12th in recent months.

The Eagles have won their last six away games, including another 2-0 win at Craven Cottage last month, and will believe they can go on to win the FA Cup for the first time.

Palace were able to welcome back French striker Jean-Philippe Mateta for the first time since he needed 25 stitches in an ear wound suffered in his side's fifth round win over Millwall four weeks ago.

But it was Eze who was Palace's match winner with two decisive moments in a matter of minutes.

34' - Eberechi Eze
38' - Ismaïla Sarr

The Eagles have stunned Craven Cottage 😲🔥

📺 Stream #EmiratesFACup on DStv: https://t.co/B0jLrQW5cc pic.twitter.com/VXqD1lonA9

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) March 29, 2025

The 26-year-old cut inside on his favoured right foot to curl in off the far post to open the scoring on 34 minutes.

Eze then jinked past Sander Berge and showed his ability on either foot with this time an inch-perfect left-footed cross for Sarr to head in at the near post.

Fulham are four places and six points above Palace in the Premier League and will now turn their focus to trying to qualify for the Champions League for the first time by finishing in the top five.

However, their dreams of Wembley were extinguished 15 minutes from time.

Eddie Nketiah had only been on the field a few minutes as Mateta's replacement and produced a composed finish under his former Arsenal teammate Bernd Leno for a third goal in four games.

Eddie Nketiah gets the third for Crystal Palace 🤩

The Eagles are 3-0 with less than five minutes of regulation time left to play 🔜

📺 Stream #EmiratesFACup on DStv: https://t.co/B0jLrQW5cc pic.twitter.com/2NyghW6vds

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) March 29, 2025

Jean-Philippe Mateta is "ready" to return for Crystal Palace in their FA Cup quarterfinal against Fulham on Saturday after suffering a horrific ear injury in the previous round.

Mateta needed 25 stitches to his left ear after being kicked in the head by Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts in Palace's FA Cup fifth-round victory on 1 March.

Roberts, who caught Mateta as he rushed out from goal, received an extended six-game ban.

The 27-year-old French striker has not played since that match during a period that has included a two-week international break.

Palace manager Oliver Glasner said Friday that Mateta, who has scored 15 goals in all competitions this season, is ready to play at Craven Cottage this weekend.

"Oh yes, he trains now for two weeks with us," said the Austrian. "Of course, always with his protection and it's also important for him to train a little bit.

"We had an internal game in the international break where he could play for 60 minutes without any problems. He's ready."

Jean-Philippe Mateta is ready for the @EmiratesFACup 🤝#CPFC pic.twitter.com/uALWiaAH5T

— Crystal Palace F.C. (@CPFC) March 28, 2025

Mateta will wear a protective mask against Fulham.

"I said to him to maybe try water polo because he is tall enough," said Glasner. "It looks a little bit strange, but he says he is comfortable.

"Let's see, when he scores a header tomorrow then it was the right mask and the right protection."

Fantastique.#CPFC pic.twitter.com/dqJtYlWSeP

— Crystal Palace F.C. (@CPFC) March 28, 2025

Palace chairman Steve Parish described the incident as the "most reckless challenge" he had ever seen, but Mateta said it was a case of "too much emotion" in the heat of the battle.

"Liam contacted me and texted me while I was in hospital and I told him, 'It is OK, it is football'," Mateta told Sky Sports. "He apologised. He was worried."