The 10 greatest shocks in football history
Football’s magic lies in its unpredictability. Whether it’s minnows toppling giants or unfancied teams going the distance, these moments have stunned fans worldwide. Here are the ten biggest shocks in football history — ranked from number 10 to number 1.
10. Bayer Leverkusen’s unbeaten domestic season – 2023/24
Nobody expected Bayer Leverkusen to dominate German football the way they did in 2023/24. Under Xabi Alonso, they went an entire Bundesliga season unbeaten, clinched the DFB-Pokal, and played with a swagger that shocked Europe.
9. Liverpool 0-1 Wimbledon – FA Cup final, 1988
Wimbledon’s rough-and-ready squad defied the odds by beating a stylish Liverpool side at Wembley. Lawrie Sanchez's header sealed the win, prompting the famous quote: “The Crazy Gang have beaten the Culture Club.”
8. USA 1-0 England – World Cup, 1950
In a clash between amateurs and professionals, the USA stunned England with a single goal from Joe Gaetjens. It was one of the earliest major upsets in football history — and it still stings for English fans today.
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7. Denmark 2-0 Germany – Euro 1992 final
Denmark weren’t even supposed to be there, having replaced Yugoslavia at the last minute. But they swept through the tournament, beating reigning champions Germany in the final with a fearless performance.
6. Wigan 1-0 Manchester City – FA Cup final, 2013
Wigan were battling relegation, while City were title contenders. But Ben Watson’s stoppage-time header gave the Latics a historic cup win — just days before they dropped out of the Premier League.
5. England 1-2 Iceland – Euro 2016
After taking an early lead, England collapsed to two quick Iceland goals in a humbling defeat. Roy Hodgson resigned immediately, as one of football’s proudest nations hit a new low.
4. Saudi Arabia 2-1 Argentina – World Cup, 2022
Lionel Messi scored early, but Saudi Arabia responded with two quickfire goals in a stunning second-half turnaround. It was one of the greatest World Cup shocks ever — even though Argentina went on to lift the trophy.
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3. San Marino 1-0 Liechtenstein – Nations League, 2024
San Marino’s victory was historic not because of the opponent, but because it marked their first competitive win in 206 attempts. For a country of just 33,000 people, it was a truly unforgettable day.
2. Greece 1-0 Portugal – Euro 2004 final
Against all expectations, Greece beat hosts Portugal to win the Euros thanks to a well-placed header by Angelos Charisteas. Their defensive discipline and belief became the stuff of legend.
1. Leicester’s Premier League title – 2015/16
No upset comes close to Leicester’s title-winning campaign. From 5,000-1 outsiders to Premier League champions, their consistency and flair made them the greatest underdog story in football history.
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