FA Cup Final Controversy: Dean Henderson’s Handball Sparks Debate in Palace’s Shock Win Over Man City

Crystal Palace goalkeeper Dean Henderson played a pivotal role in his side’s historic 1-0 win over Manchester City in Saturday’s FA Cup final at Wembley — but a controversial first-half incident involving the England international has sparked debate among fans and pundits.

Henderson delivered a standout performance, including a full-stretch penalty save to deny Omar Marmoush and several crucial stops to keep City at bay. However, questions are being raised about whether he should have remained on the pitch long enough to make those saves.

In the first half, Manchester City defender Josko Gvardiol launched a long ball over the top aimed at Erling Haaland. As the City striker charged forward, Henderson rushed out of his box and appeared to use his hand to divert the ball — a move that immediately drew protests and scrutiny.

Despite clear replays showing the handball occurred outside the penalty area, VAR reviewed the incident and allowed play to continue, concluding that Haaland had not been denied an “obvious goal-scoring opportunity.”

The official explanation stated:

“The direction in which Erling Haaland was going made it possible, but not [denying] an obvious goal scoring opportunity.”

The decision did not sit well with many, including former Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney, who said during the BBC broadcast, “It was 100% a red card. Get rid of VAR.”

The controversy adds another layer to Palace’s remarkable FA Cup run and Henderson’s personal redemption arc. But with such a high-stakes moment left unresolved, it’s likely to fuel ongoing criticism of VAR’s consistency and interpretation of key incidents.

Source: African Publicity