Manchester City's Erling Haaland passed up a golden opportunity to score from the penalty spot during their FA Cup final loss against Crystal Palace, handing the ball to Omar Marmoush instead. With the score level at 1-1, Haaland astounded spectators by kissing the ball and passing on the responsibility to Marmoush, who saw his spot-kick saved by Dean Henderson. City manager Pep Guardiola admitted that he was surprised by Haaland's decision but noted that the players decided Marmoush was ready to take the penalty. Former Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney suggested that the occasion may have gotten to Haaland, claiming that the world-class striker would not have given up the ball under similar circumstances. Despite Haaland's failure to score in eight finals with City, extending his barren run to six games without finding the net at Wembley, Alan Shearer questioned why he did not take the penalty. Micah Richards labeled the decision as "unusual" for the striker. Henderson, who made the save, revealed that he knew which way Haaland was going to go and that he was confident of stopping the shot.
City dominated the opening stages of the match but fell behind in the 16th minute when Eberechi Eze scored the goal that ultimately won Palace the match. The defeated opposition players paid due respect to Palace by waiting for the opposition to lift the trophy before slipping off with their heads bowed down the tunnel. Haaland, however, lingered on the pitch with his runners-up medal around his neck, contemplating his season that had gone so wrong. Palace players revelled in winning the first major trophy in the club's history, while Haaland's compatriots celebrated the national day of Norway.
The defeat marks a disappointing season for City, who have failed to meet the levels they've set in recent years. Kevin de Bruyne was unable to end his illustrious career at the club on a high with a trophy, while 19-year-old Argentine Claudio Echeverri was given his debut in the second half. Micah Richards suggested that a rebuild is in order for City.
Source: BBC Sports Football
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