The FA Cup often produces fairytale stories, and Antoine Semenyo's sensational winning goal in this season's final has added another chapter to the storied history of the world's oldest cup competition. Eight years ago, Semenyo was on loan at non-league Bath City, but on Saturday, he etched his name into Wembley folklore with a flicked finish that will long be remembered in the FA Cup's rich history.
The 26-year-old joined Manchester City from Bournemouth in January, and his 72nd-minute strike against Chelsea secured a 16th major trophy for manager Pep Guardiola and the 20th piece of silverware for the club in Guardiola's decade-long tenure. Semenyo's goal was a testament to the club's £62.5m investment in him, which has been deemed a shrewd move in an overinflated transfer market.
"It happened perfectly today," Semenyo told BBC Sport. "Everything was so fast. It came straight to me and I had to improvise quickly. I have never competed for trophies like this before, so everything is new to me. Hopefully, we can finish the job off. It is a good finish, I can't lie."
"As a kid, I always wanted to play for the top teams. It took a long time to get here, but I am grateful."
Former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson added on BBC Radio 5 Live: "It was just brilliant from Antoine Semenyo. The timing of the run was perfect."
Semenyo's rise from non-league obscurity to FA Cup hero is the stuff of dreams! It's a reminder that in football, anything is possible. Who's the next underdog to make us believe in magic? Let's see more of these inspiring stories!