Macclesfield vs Crystal Palace: Team News, Lineups & Match Prediction

The FA Cup third-round matchup between Crystal Palace and Macclesfield FC is set to unfold at the Leasing.com Stadium. This clash sees the defending champions, Crystal Palace, face non-league team Macclesfield for the first time since 2004-05. Back then, Manchester United needed a replay to overcome Exeter City in similar circumstances.

Macclesfield’s Journey in the FA Cup

Macclesfield FC has a storied and challenging recent past. The club faced liquidation nearly six years ago, primarily due to debts exceeding £500,000. Now, they find themselves in the first round proper of the FA Cup for just the second time. Their previous deep run was in 2013 as Macclesfield Town, when they reached the fourth round before losing to Wigan Athletic.

Current Standings and Performance

• Macclesfield is currently 14th in the National League North.
• They secured a 2-1 victory over Ratcliffe recently, pulling them 11 points clear of relegation.

Under the management of John Rooney, brother of Wayne Rooney, the team is looking to capitalize on its current momentum. After winning the Northern Premier League with an impressive 109 points, they began their FA Cup journey with a 3-0 win against Atherton Laburnum Rovers. Following victories over Nantwich Town, Stamford, and AFC Totton, they secured their third-round spot with a 3-1 win at Slough Town.

Tragedy and Tribute

The upcoming match also pays tribute to Ethan McLeod, a promising young player whose untimely passing at age 21 profoundly affected the club and its community. His contributions were significant in helping Macclesfield reach this prestigious stage of the FA Cup.

Crystal Palace’s Recent Form

Crystal Palace enters this match after lifting the FA Cup trophy last season by defeating Manchester City. This victory marked a historic moment for the club, being their first major trophy in 120 years. In the current Premier League season, Palace finds themselves in 13th place, struggling with form as they have not won any of their last eight matches, with three draws and five losses.

Injury Concerns and Team Dynamics

• Daniel Munoz, Cheick Doucoure, and Eddie Nketiah remain sidelined with injuries.
• Ismaila Sarr is currently away on international duty.
• Crystal Palace may adjust their lineup, introducing fresh players like Chris Richards and Jaydee Canvot.

Manager Oliver Glasner must balance resting key players while ensuring a competitive squad against their non-league opponents. This strategy could help them avoid becoming the first FA Cup holders to be eliminated by a non-league team since a 1908-09 encounter against Palace themselves.

Match Predictions

As Crystal Palace gears up to face Macclesfield, they are heavily favored to win. Despite the underdog status of Macclesfield, Rooney remains hopeful, noting the potential for an upset in FA Cup history. However, given Palace’s experience and depth, a comfortable victory is anticipated, with predictions leaning towards a 3-0 outcome in their favor.

The clash at the Leasing.com Stadium promises excitement and a chance to witness the resilience of a non-league side against top-flight opposition.