In a thrilling FA Cup semi-final clash, Crystal Palace delivered a stunning performance against Fulham, securing a decisive 3-0 victory at Craven Cottage on Saturday, March 29, 2025. This win marks Palace's return to the semi-finals for the first time in three years since the 2021-22 season.
The match kicked off with both teams eager to secure a place in the final, but it was Crystal Palace who struck first. Eberechi Eze opened the scoring in the 34th minute with a brilliant shot that found the bottom corner of the net, giving Palace a 1-0 lead. His skillful run from the left side allowed him to cut inside and unleash a powerful right-footed effort that left Fulham's goalkeeper, Bernd Leno, with no chance.
Just four minutes later, Palace doubled their advantage. Eze turned provider this time, delivering a precise cross from the left that was met by Jordan Ayew, who headed the ball into the net, making it 2-0. The momentum was clearly on Palace's side, and they showed no signs of letting up.
Fulham, under the management of Marco Silva, struggled to find their rhythm, despite having a solid record of 3 wins and 2 losses in their last five matches leading up to this encounter. The home side had previously faced Palace in the Premier League on February 22, 2025, where they suffered a 2-0 defeat at the same venue. The pressure was mounting as the match progressed, and the stakes were high for both teams.
In the second half, Fulham attempted to mount a comeback, but Crystal Palace's defense, marshaled by Marc Guéhi and Joachim Andersen, held firm. The introduction of Daichi Kamada in the 70th minute for Palace added an extra spark to their attack. Just four minutes after his arrival, Kamada showcased his vision and passing ability, assisting Eddie Nketiah for Palace's third goal. Nketiah, who had made a well-timed run into the box, finished clinically to make it 3-0.
The final whistle blew with Crystal Palace comfortably ahead, sealing their place in the FA Cup final. Manager Oliver Glasner expressed his delight post-match, stating, "Today was a fantastic performance from the team. We executed our game plan perfectly and showed great determination throughout the match."
Fulham, on the other hand, will have to regroup and reassess after this disappointing exit from the tournament. Silva remarked, "We need to learn from this experience. We had our chances, but we failed to convert them. Crystal Palace was clinical today, and we need to improve our finishing in future matches."
The match was officiated by Darren England, who kept a close eye on the proceedings as both teams battled fiercely for a spot in the final. The atmosphere at Craven Cottage was electric, with fans from both sides cheering passionately for their teams.
With this victory, Crystal Palace not only advances to the FA Cup final but also continues to build momentum as they head into the final stretch of the season. The win adds to their recent success, having recorded four wins in their last five matches, including impressive victories over Millwall and Doncaster in previous rounds of the FA Cup.
As the dust settles on this thrilling encounter, the focus now shifts to the final, where Crystal Palace will aim to claim their first FA Cup title. Fans are already buzzing with excitement, eager to see how their team will perform on the grand stage. The journey to the final has been a testament to the team's resilience and determination, and they will undoubtedly carry this momentum forward.
In conclusion, Crystal Palace's 3-0 victory over Fulham in the FA Cup semi-finals not only secures their place in the final but also highlights the team's potential as they seek to make history. With a blend of youth and experience, Palace looks poised to take on any challenge that comes their way in the final.
