The Greatest World Cup Upsets of All Time: When Underdogs Shocked the World
The FIFA World Cup has always been a theatre of miracles, a place where giants fall, underdogs rise, and nations write stories that last forever. What makes the tournament irresistible is not just the brilliance of champions but the moments when teams with little expectation deliver results that shake the football world to its core.
These historic upsets stand as reminders that football is not decided by reputation, but by courage, belief and the willingness to dream.
Below is a list of the greatest World Cup shocks of all time, moments that left fans stunned, commentators speechless, and football changed forever.
Ghana’s 2010 Triumph: The Near-Miracle That Electrified Africa
Ghana’s run in 2010 remains one of Africa’s most inspiring stories. The Black Stars reached the quarterfinals and came within seconds of becoming the first African team to reach the semifinals.
Their journey captivated the world, with Asamoah Gyan’s leadership, youthful energy and fearless football representing the spirit of the continent. Even though they fell heartbreakingly to Uruguay, Ghana’s 2010 team remains a symbol of African excellence on the global stage.
Saudi Arabia 2–1 Argentina (2022) to Break Argentina’s 36 Games Unbeaten Run
Saudi Arabia produced one of the greatest upsets in World Cup history by defeating Lionel Messi’s Argentina, the eventual champions, in their opening match of the 2022 tournament. Their second-half comeback, fuelled by a high defensive line and fearless pressing, stunned the football world. It was a reminder that at the World Cup, even the strongest teams can be toppled by courage and tactical brilliance.
- Senegal 1–0 France (2002): The Lions of Teranga Announce Themselves
In the opening match of the 2002 World Cup, debutants Senegal shocked reigning world champions France. Papa Bouba Diop’s historic goal secured a victory that not only stunned the world, but also announced Africa as an undeniable force in global football.
Switzerland 1–0 Spain (2010): The Wake-Up Call That Built a Champion
Spain arrived at the 2010 World Cup as European champions and overwhelming favourites. But in their opening match, Switzerland produced a disciplined, compact masterclass, defeating Spain 1–0.
Remarkably, Spain recovered from this early shock, rebuilt themselves with precision and resilience, and went on to win the tournament. This remains the only time in history a team has lost their first match and still lifted the World Cup. While Argentina was the second team to have done that.
USA 1–0 England (1950): The Miracle of Belo Horizonte
One of the earliest and most astonishing World Cup results. England, considered the inventors of the game and massive favourites, were humbled by a spirited American side composed mostly of part-time players. The 1–0 defeat remains one of the biggest shocks in football history and continues to symbolise the unpredictability of the tournament.
Morocco 1–0 Portugal (2022): Africa Rewrites History
Morocco’s 2022 World Cup campaign was filled with magic, but nothing shone brighter than their historic victory over Portugal in the quarterfinals. Youssef En-Nesyri’s towering header secured a place in the semifinals, making Morocco the first African nation, and the first Arab country, to reach the last four. It was not just a win, but a cultural and continental milestone that electrified the world.
Costa Rica’s Run in the 2014 Group of Death
Placed in a brutal group with England, Italy and Uruguay, Costa Rica were expected to finish bottom. Instead, they delivered one of the tournament’s most astonishing campaigns, beating Uruguay, defeating Italy and holding England. They topped the group, reached the quarterfinals and became heroes of the 2014 World Cup.
Cameroon 1–0 Argentina (1990): A Legendary African Upset
With Diego Maradona leading the defending champions, Argentina were expected to sweep aside Cameroon. Instead, the Indomitable Lions delivered a fearless performance. Despite receiving two red cards, Cameroon struck late and defended heroically to seal one of the most iconic African victories in World Cup history.
These unforgettable moments capture the heart of the World Cup. They prove that football is not won by history or reputation, but by bravery, determination and belief.
When underdogs rise, they carry the dreams of millions, and they remind the world why football is truly the beautiful game.
