Crystal Palace Soar into FA Cup Quarter-Finals with Convincing Win Over Millwall

Crystal Palace continued their impressive FA Cup run with a dominant 3-1 victory over 10-man Millwall at Selhurst Park, securing their place in the quarter-finals for the third time in seven seasons. The Eagles capitalized on an early red card for Millwall’s Liam Roberts, controlling the match and securing a deserved win.

Early Drama and VAR Controversy

The game’s most significant moment came just eight minutes into the match when Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts was sent off for a reckless high challenge on Jean-Philippe Mateta. The incident was reviewed by VAR, but the decision stood without much debate, especially as Mateta had to be stretchered off and taken to the hospital. The early dismissal left Millwall with a mountain to climb against a resurgent Palace side.

Palace Take Advantage

The Eagles made the most of their numerical advantage, asserting control over the game. Their breakthrough came in the 33rd minute when Millwall defender Japhet Tanganga inadvertently turned Will Hughes’ cross into his own net. Just seven minutes later, Tanganga was again involved, this time deflecting the ball into the path of Daniel Muñoz, who slotted home his fifth goal of the season.

Millwall’s Late Hope Dashed

Despite being down to ten men, Millwall showed resilience and pulled a goal back deep into 13 minutes of added time in the first half. Harding’s low shot took a deflection off Ben Chilwell and found its way into the net, giving the visitors a glimmer of hope heading into the second half.

Nketiah Seals the Victory

Millwall fought bravely in the second half, but Palace remained in control. The Eagles secured their victory in the 81st minute when substitute Eddie Nketiah, who had replaced Mateta, finished the game off with a fine header. With an expected goals (xG) tally of 2.44 to 0.47, there was little doubt about Palace’s superiority on the day.

Glasner’s Eagles Flying High

Under manager Oliver Glasner, Crystal Palace have now won six consecutive matches, building significant momentum. Their progress to the FA Cup quarter-finals in three of the last seven seasons matches their tally from the previous 36 campaigns, signaling the club’s growing consistency in the competition.

Daniel Muñoz continues to be a key player, with his fifth goal of the season putting him behind only Jean-Philippe Mateta (15) and Ismaïla Sarr (7) in the club’s scoring charts.

With their sights set on FA Cup glory, Palace fans can dare to dream as their team moves one step closer to Wembley.