The 5 Biggest Underdogs in the History of European Football

Football is a sport where the favorites don't always come out on top. While powerhouse clubs like Real Madrid, Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and Manchester United tend to dominate the silverware, the real beauty of the game lies in surprises — when the so-called "underdogs" prevail. These are the underrated teams, modest squads, and overlooked coaches who exceed all expectations and claim historic trophies.

These moments leave such an impact that they become part of football folklore and live on forever in the fans' imagination. And believe it or not, they're not as rare as you might think! Below, we've assembled the five biggest upsets in recent European football — clubs and national teams who defied logic, toppled giants, and made their names immortal in the sport.

5 - Porto 2004

Porto's 2004 Champions League triumph was truly epic. With no big-name stars — except the brilliant Deco — the Portuguese club showed incredible tactical discipline under José Mourinho. The team played with defensive solidity and capitalized on swift counter-attacks.

The title was the product of a consistent and unexpected campaign. Porto finished second in a group with Real Madrid and Olympique de Marseille, then shocked Manchester United in the Round of 16 with a last-minute equalizer at Old Trafford — a moment that silenced English fans and launched Mourinho’s reputation as the "Special One". They then overcame Lyon and Deportivo La Coruña with well-drilled strategies.

In the final, against another surprise package, Monaco, Porto made no mistakes: a 3-0 victory, complete dominance, and a performance truly befitting champions — even as outsiders among the European elite. A classic underdog with authority!

4 - Chelsea 2012

Chelsea in 2012 seemed destined for disappointment. Having been routed by Napoli in the Champions League Round of 16, the club sacked their manager and appointed Roberto Di Matteo as interim coach. Against all odds, he led the team to the biggest prize in European football.

The comeback against Napoli at Stamford Bridge was the turning point. After defeating Benfica, Chelsea faced the all-conquering Barcelona of Messi, Xavi, and Iniesta. Down to ten men, the Blues earned a dramatic draw at Camp Nou through heroic defending and quick counter-attacks.

In the final at Bayern Munich’s Allianz Arena, Chelsea were outplayed for much of the match. But in the 88th minute, Drogba headed in the equalizer. In extra time, Cech saved a penalty from Robben. The shootout brought more drama — and Chelsea’s first ever Champions League trophy, with several unlikely heroes. A true Hollywood-script upset!

3 - Portugal 2016

Few believed in Portugal at Euro 2016. The team didn't win a single match in the group stage, qualifying as one of the best third-placed teams. With a squad regarded as limited and a divisive coach in Fernando Santos, they grew stronger with each round.

Against Croatia, a tense and tactical match was settled only by Quaresma's extra-time goal. Then came penalties against Poland. In the semifinal, a confident victory over Wales. But the biggest challenge was in the final: hosts France, backed by a passionate home crowd and stars like Griezmann and Pogba.

To make it harder, Cristiano Ronaldo was injured in the first half. Everything seemed to be going against Portugal. Yet the team resisted, never gave up, and saw Éder — a striker few believed in — score the winner in extra time. One of the great turnarounds in European Championship history.

2 - Greece 2004

No one — absolutely no one — gave Greece a chance before Euro 2004. With a little-known German manager (Otto Rehhagel) and a squad of mostly anonymous players, they arrived just to make up the numbers. But they left as champions, thanks to defensive discipline and expert tactics.

In the group stage, they stunned Portugal in the opener and drew with Spain. Then they knocked out holders France, led by Zidane and Henry, with a single goal in the quarters. In the semifinals, they outlasted the talented Czech Republic with an extra-time winner.

In the final, facing Portugal again — boasting Scolari, Figo, Deco, and Cristiano Ronaldo — Greece did the impossible once more: a 1-0 victory, Charisteas scoring the decisive header. The team proved that discipline, teamwork, and strategy can conquer any favorite. One of football’s greatest upsets ever.

1 - Leicester City 2015-16

Of all the upsets, Leicester City’s 2015-16 title win stands alone. Unlike knockout tournaments, the Premier League is a 38-match marathon — and Leicester finished above all of England’s giants: Manchester City, United, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Arsenal.

The season before, Leicester barely survived relegation. Claudio Ranieri’s appointment was met with skepticism. The squad was made up of bargains and rejects, like Vardy (a former factory worker), Kanté (recently plucked from France’s second division), and Mahrez. But everything clicked. The team played with intensity, lightning-fast transitions, and an infectious collective spirit.

While the big clubs faltered, Leicester kept their consistency. They secured the title with two games left, amassing 81 points. An upset for the ages — with 5,000-to-1 odds at the start of the season!

These stories show that in football, nothing is written in stone. Money, tradition, and star power help — but they’re not enough on their own. Belief, courage, and the willingness to dream are what really count. Porto, Chelsea, Greece, Portugal, and Leicester proved that any team can win, as long as they are ready to push beyond their limits.

What about you? Which upset has left the deepest mark on your memories as a fan? Leave a comment and share this article with that friend who thinks “the shirt always wins.”