What Ian Wright and Alan Shearer have said about Erling Haaland decision
Crystal Palace Troll Erling Haaland Over Penalty Decision During Win Against Wolves
Just days after the FA Cup final, both Manchester City and Crystal Palace were back in Premier League action on Tuesday night. Pep Guardiola’s side earned a 3-1 victory over Bournemouth, while Crystal Palace put on a show at Selhurst Park, defeating Wolves 4-2.
But during Palace’s entertaining win, the south London club couldn’t resist taking a cheeky dig at Erling Haaland over his controversial penalty decision in the FA Cup final.
Palace Take Swipe at Haaland with Mid-Game Penalty Joke
At half-time, Crystal Palace’s tradition of a penalty shootout between young fans took an unexpected twist. As a Wolves-supporting child stepped up, the pitchside host jokingly asked if they wanted to take the penalty themselves or pass it to the other Wolves fan—clearly referencing Haaland’s surprise move at Wembley.
During City’s 1-0 loss to Palace in the FA Cup final, Haaland handed over penalty duties to Omar Marmoush instead of taking the spot-kick himself. The decision backfired when Palace goalkeeper Dean Henderson saved Marmoush’s effort, preserving their lead and ultimately securing the win.
Wright and Shearer Slam Haaland’s Decision
Football icons Ian Wright and Alan Shearer have both criticized Haaland for refusing the penalty.
Speaking on his Wrighty’s House podcast, Wright didn’t hold back: “No, I’m not giving that to nobody… that’s your go-to guy. How many Golden Boots has he won? He scores in his sleep. Why are you not taking that penalty? You’re the number nine. You’re the main man.”
Shearer echoed the sentiment on The Rest is Football podcast, saying: “If Haaland is on the pitch and fit, it must be a mental choice not to take the penalty—or Pep made the call. Either way, that was a big surprise.”
Dean Henderson later admitted he had no idea how Haaland would have taken the penalty but felt confident predicting Marmoush’s strike, which he correctly saved.
In hindsight, the decision not only cost City silverware but also opened the door for Palace—and their fans—to poke fun at one of the Premier League’s biggest stars.
