Social media erupts as USMNT stars Chris Richards, Matt Turner help Crystal Palace make FA Cup history

Following Crystal Palace's unexpected 1-0 victory over Manchester City in the FA Cup final, social media platforms immediately lit up with reactions celebrating the Eagles’ achievement. Not only that, a lot of focus was on Chris Richards, who delivered a standout defensive performance in the 1-0 win over Manchester City at Wembley. He wasn’t the only American to be celebrated as Matt Turner was a part of the proceedings as they became the third and fourth Americans to lift England's oldest and most prestigious cup competition.

“I think it’s dope,” Richards told Radio London when asked how he feels about winning the FA Cup as an American. “I believe Tim Howard and one other has won it so I think me and Matt Turner being a part of that very small group is an amazing feeling, and hopefully we’ll have a few Americans after us win it as well.

“Winning a title always makes a difference, but also being able to play in a European competition also keeps a few guys here. We’re trying not to look too much towards next season, but I think it gives us a better chance of keeping some pivotal guys,” Richards added when asked about next season.

The FA Cup triumph marks a watershed moment for American players in English football, as Chris Richards and Matt Turner helped Crystal Palace lift the historic trophy. While the competition dates back to 1871, only a handful of Americans have ever won it—most notably goalkeeper Tim Howard with Manchester United in 2004 and Boston-born Julian Sturgis, who played for the Wanderers in the 1873 final. Until now, however, it had largely eluded modern-era American outfield players, making Richards’ role in Palace’s victory especially significant.

With their place in American soccer history secured, Richards and Turner will likely enjoy the immediate aftermath of their victory before returning their focus to the Premier League. The Eagles host Wolverhampton Wanderers at Selhurst Park on May 20 in their penultimate game of the 2024-25 season before going to Anfield to face Liverpool on May 24 in the final league game of the season.