When Giants Fell

The World Cup is often ruled by soccer’s elite, but now and then, the underdogs rise up and rewrite the script. These shocking moments defy odds, silence doubters, and energize fans worldwide. Here are 15 underdog World Cup victories that shook the sport to its core.

1. USA 1-0 England (1950)

Dubbed “the miracle on grass,” the U.S. stunned the soccer world by defeating mighty England—a result so unbelievable, some thought it was a misprint.

2. North Korea 1-0 Italy (1966)

In one of the tournament’s biggest surprises, North Korea eliminated two-time champions Italy in the group stage, igniting chaos in Italian media and celebrations in Asia.

3. Cameroon 1-0 Argentina (1990)

Defending champions Argentina fell to a 10-man Cameroon side in the opening match. Francois Omam-Biyik’s header became legendary.

4. Senegal 1-0 France (2002)

Debutants Senegal defeated defending champs France in the opener. El Hadji Diouf led a fearless team that would reach the quarterfinals.

5. Algeria 2-1 West Germany (1982)

Unfancied Algeria shocked West Germany in their first World Cup appearance. Sadly, their dream ended due to the controversial “Disgrace of Gijón” match.

6. Switzerland 1-0 Spain (2010)

World champions-to-be Spain stumbled early against a disciplined Swiss side. It didn’t stop Spain from winning it all, but this upset was seismic.

7. Ghana 2-0 Czech Republic (2006)

The Czechs were ranked No. 2 in the world. Ghana were debutants. But the Black Stars dominated and started their rise to becoming Africa’s pride.

8. South Korea 2-1 Italy (2002)

Co-hosts South Korea knocked out Italy in a controversial but unforgettable Round of 16 match. The underdog run didn’t stop until the semis.

9. Costa Rica 1-0 Italy, 2014 Group of Death

Everyone predicted Costa Rica to finish last in a group with Italy, Uruguay, and England. Instead, they beat Italy and won the group.

10. Saudi Arabia 2-1 Argentina (2022)

Argentina entered the tournament with a 36-game unbeaten run. Saudi Arabia shocked the future champions in the opener, sparking global headlines.

11. Croatia 3-0 Argentina (2018)

Though not a traditional minnow, Croatia’s dismantling of Argentina showed they were elite. This performance was the beginning of their run to the final.

12. Japan 2-1 Germany (2022)

In one of Qatar’s first shockers, Japan came from behind to beat four-time champions Germany. Quick counterattacks and precision stunned the world.

13. Tunisia 1-0 France (2022)

While France rotated their squad, Tunisia still beat the defending champs—a massive statement for North African football.

14. Morocco 1-0 Portugal (2022 Quarterfinal)

Morocco became the first African team to reach a semifinal, and their disciplined win over Ronaldo’s Portugal cemented their legend status.

15. Bulgaria 2-1 Germany (1994)

Led by Hristo Stoichkov, Bulgaria came from behind to knock out defending champions Germany in the quarterfinals—one of the 90s’ greatest shocks.

Conclusion: Proof That Anything Is Possible

These underdog World Cup victories remind us why we love the game: the unpredictability, the heart, and the magic. Every tournament holds the promise of a new miracle—a David who will topple a Goliath.