The FA Cup third round delivered shocks that reminded everyone why this competition captivates fans. Wrexham defeated Premier League opposition for the first time in 26 years, while sixth-tier Macclesfield Town eliminated holders Crystal Palace. These results showcased the English game's depth, where the unexpected regularly unfolds on football's grandest domestic stage.

Palace's elimination was particularly humiliating, marking the first time a top-flight team lost to a sixth-tier side. Macclesfield's part-time players, including a P.E. teacher and a candle company employee, outlasted giants with 26 combined FA Cup titles. Meanwhile, Manchester City's 10-goal rout of Exeter City provided a stark contrast to the weekend's democratic drama.

Manchester United and Tottenham both suffered early exits, deepening their respective crises. United crashed out of both domestic cups at the first hurdle for the first time since 1981-82, facing their lowest fixture workload since 1914-15. Spurs' defeat leaves manager Thomas Frank's job hanging by a thread ahead of a crucial West Ham derby.