Manchester City Stunned by Championship Side in FA Cup Fifth Round Upset

Birmingham City produced the shock of the FA Cup fifth round today, defeating Premier League leaders Manchester City 2-1 in a thrilling encounter at St. Andrew's Stadium that will go down in competition folklore. The Championship side overcame a 34-place league position gap to knock out Pep Guardiola's star-studded team in front of a raucous home crowd.

The upset began to unfold in the 23rd minute when Birmingham striker Jake Morrison capitalized on a rare defensive lapse from City center-back Ruben Dias. Morrison's perfectly timed run caught the City defense off guard, and he coolly slotted past goalkeeper Ederson to send the home fans into raptures. The goal marked Morrison's first against Premier League opposition and came at the perfect moment for the Blues.

Manchester City's response was swift and predictable, dominating possession and creating numerous chances throughout the first half. However, Birmingham goalkeeper Neil Henderson was in inspired form, making spectacular saves to deny both Kevin De Bruyne and Erling Haaland. The 28-year-old keeper's performance included a point-blank stop from Haaland's header that drew gasps from the crowd.

The second half saw Birmingham double their lead through an unlikely source – defender Marcus Webb's towering header from a corner kick in the 67th minute. Webb, making just his third start of the season, rose highest at the near post to flick the ball beyond Ederson's reach. The goal sent the stadium into delirium and left City facing an uphill battle they rarely encounter.

City did manage to pull one back through substitute Phil Foden with 10 minutes remaining, but Birmingham held firm during a nervy finale. The Championship side defended heroically, throwing bodies in front of shots and clearing everything that came into their penalty area. When referee Michael Oliver blew the final whistle, Birmingham players collapsed to the turf in exhaustion and joy.

This result represents Birmingham's biggest victory since their 2011 League Cup triumph over Arsenal at Wembley. Manager Gary Rowett praised his players' commitment and tactical discipline, while Guardiola graciously accepted defeat, acknowledging that Birmingham deserved their historic win. The result sets up a quarter-final clash with Newcastle United for Birmingham, keeping their cup dream alive.