“Maybe the pressure of Wembley was just too much.”
Wembley Stadium, London —
Erling Haaland’s Wembley woes continued in dramatic fashion during Manchester City’s stunning 1-0 loss to Crystal Palace in the 2025 FA Cup Final, as the Norwegian striker opted out of taking a crucial penalty—leaving fans, pundits, and even his own manager stunned.
In a moment that left the 90,000-capacity crowd and millions watching around the world in disbelief, Haaland stepped aside and handed the ball to Omar Marmoush when City were awarded a spot-kick to potentially equalize. The decision backfired immediately as Marmoush’s effort was saved brilliantly by Palace goalkeeper Dean Henderson.
“I thought he [Haaland] would want to take it, but they didn’t speak,” said City boss Pep Guardiola post-match. “In moments like that, it comes down to feeling. They decided Omar was ready. Unfortunately, it didn’t work out.”
The penalty miss proved pivotal. City, despite dominating possession and creating chances, failed to find a breakthrough. And it was Eberechi Eze’s 16th-minute goal that eventually sealed Palace’s first-ever major trophy.
“That’s What Separates the Greats”
The debate around Haaland’s decision erupted immediately across social media and sports panels.
Wayne Rooney, the former Manchester United captain, didn’t hold back:
“Erling Haaland is a world-class forward, no doubt. But if that’s Messi or Ronaldo in that moment? They’re not handing that ball to anyone. That’s the difference between superstars and legends — they’re selfish in front of goal.”
Rooney added, “Maybe the pressure of taking a penalty at Wembley just got to him. He’s human.”
Even former City defender Micah Richards expressed disbelief:
“Haaland is normally confident, sometimes arrogant even. For him not to step up… that’s just not the Haaland we know.”
Haaland’s Wembley Curse
Despite bagging 30 goals this season and maintaining a formidable presence in the Premier League, Haaland’s record at Wembley continues to cast a shadow. The striker has now failed to score in six consecutive games at the stadium and has missed three of his last seven penalties, possibly influencing his last-minute decision.
It’s a sharp contrast to last season’s glory when Haaland scored 52 goals in 53 appearances as City completed a historic treble.
But this season? Haaland himself called it “horrific” in a BBC interview just days before the final. Saturday’s defeat only deepens that sentiment.
Henderson Knew He’d Save It
Dean Henderson, the hero of the hour, revealed after the match that he had a strong hunch Marmoush would be the taker—and that gave him the edge.
“I wasn’t sure if Haaland would step up, but when he gave it away, I just knew where Marmoush was going. I told myself I’d save it, and I did.”
His decisive save not only preserved Palace’s lead but also etched his name into club folklore as the Eagles clinched their first major trophy in 119 years.
A City Rebuild Incoming?
Saturday’s defeat marked the second consecutive FA Cup final loss for Guardiola’s men at Wembley, having fallen to Manchester United in 2024.
The match also symbolized a shift at the heart of City’s midfield, with club legend Kevin De Bruyne playing what could be his final match and teenage Argentine Claudio Echeverri making his debut.
Micah Richards didn’t mince words:
“City need a rebuild. Pep has said it. The players haven’t been at the level they were in recent years.”
Final Thoughts: A Season to Forget?
As Palace players hoisted the trophy and confetti rained down to the Bee Gees’ “Stayin’ Alive,” Haaland remained on the pitch, medal around his neck, gaze distant. His teammates quietly disappeared down the tunnel, visibly deflated.
For City, what began with high hopes is ending in frustration. Their season now hangs on securing a top-five finish in their remaining two league games—anything less will mark it as a complete failure.
For Haaland, the Wembley nightmare lives on. And for football fans? The question lingers:
Should a player of his stature ever hand off a penalty in a final?
What’s your take? Should Haaland have stepped up? Drop your thoughts in the comments below.
