Crystal Palace delivered a statement performance in their FA Cup quarterfinal clash against Fulham, securing a dominant 3-0 victory at Craven Cottage on Saturday. Eberechi Eze was the show’s star, scoring a stunning goal and providing an assist to lead his team into the semifinals.

The win keeps Palace’s FA Cup dream alive, as they now prepare for a trip to Wembley, just one step away from their first-ever major trophy.

Eberechi Eze’s Brilliance Shines Through

The match kicked off with Fulham taking early control, pressing high, and creating opportunities. But despite their possession dominance, they failed to capitalize on their chances.

Then came a moment of magic in the 34th minute.

Eze, fresh off scoring his first England goal earlier in the week, produced another moment of brilliance. The winger received the ball on the left, dropped his shoulder, and curled a powerful shot that clipped the far post before rippling the net.

Craven Cottage fell silent.

Just four minutes later, Eze turned provider. His pinpoint cross from the left found Ismaïla Sarr, who headed the ball past Fulham’s keeper Bernd Leno.

Palace had taken a commanding 2-0 lead, despite Fulham’s dominance in possession.

Fulham’s Second-Half Struggles

Coming out of halftime, Fulham desperately pushed forward, knowing they needed a quick goal.

• Willian came closest to scoring, firing a shot that Palace keeper Dean Henderson brilliantly saved.
• Calvin Bassey nearly bundled the ball in after a goalmouth scramble, but Palace’s defense held firm.

Despite their pressure, Fulham lacked the cutting edge to break down Palace’s disciplined backline.

Then, in the 75th minute, substitute Eddie Nketiah—a former FA Cup winner with Arsenal—sealed the game with a clinical finish, making it 3-0.

With that, Fulham’s FA Cup journey ended, while Palace celebrated their ticket to Wembley.

Crystal Palace’s FA Cup History & What Comes Next

This is Palace’s second FA Cup semifinal appearance in four seasons. They have come agonizingly close to lifting the trophy before:

• 1990 FA Cup Final: Lost to Manchester United
• 2016 FA Cup Final: Lost to Manchester United (again)

Now, with so many top teams eliminated, Palace fans are starting to believe that this could finally be their year.

Speaking after the match, Eze expressed his confidence:

“We know what we can do. We’re confident in our ability and today we showed our mentality. The job isn’t done yet, but we believe.”

Palace will now await their semifinal opponent, with the draw set to take place soon.

What This Means for Fulham

For Fulham, this was a missed opportunity to advance in the FA Cup.

Despite controlling early possession, they lacked the killer instinct in the final third. Rodrigo Muniz, Andreas Pereira, and Willian all had chances but failed to convert.

Now, Fulham must shift their focus back to the Premier League, where they are still in contention for a European spot.

Key Takeaways from the Match

• Eberechi Eze was sensational, scoring a wonder goal and providing an assist.
• Palace was ruthless in front of the goal, scoring three times with limited chances.
• Fulham lacked precision, despite dominating early possession.
• Crystal Palace advanced to the FA Cup semifinals, keeping their dreams of a first major trophy alive.

FA Cup Semifinals: The Road to Wembley

With Manchester City, Liverpool, and Arsenal already out, the FA Cup is wide open this season.

Palace will now head to Wembley for the semifinals, where they will face one of the remaining teams in their quest for FA Cup glory.

Meanwhile, later on Saturday, Brighton & Hove Albion take on Nottingham Forest, with another team hoping to secure their place in the final four.

As the FA Cup drama continues, could this finally be Crystal Palace’s year?

Stay tuned for more updates as the road to Wembley continues!

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