The FA Cup, known for its rich history and tradition, has always been a platform where the impossible becomes reality. It is a tournament where smaller clubs often defy the odds to topple football giants, creating some of the most memorable moments in the sport’s history. Here, we celebrate the biggest underdog stories in FA Cup history that prove why this competition is so beloved.
1. Sunderland Defeats Leeds United (1973 Final)
The 1973 FA Cup final is one of the most iconic moments in the competition’s history. Second-division Sunderland faced a Leeds United team filled with stars and considered one of the best in the country. Against all odds, Sunderland triumphed 1–0, thanks to Ian Porterfield’s goal and a remarkable double save by Jim Montgomery that has gone down in FA Cup folklore.
2. Wimbledon’s “Crazy Gang” Over Liverpool (1988 Final)
The 1988 final saw Wimbledon, a club known for its physical and unorthodox playing style, take on the mighty Liverpool. Lawrie Sanchez scored the only goal of the match, and Dave Beasant became the first goalkeeper to save a penalty in an FA Cup final, securing Wimbledon’s 1–0 victory. This upset remains one of the greatest in football history.
3. Wigan Athletic Stuns Manchester City (2013 Final)
Wigan Athletic, battling relegation from the Premier League, faced a Manchester City team filled with world-class talent in the 2013 final. Few gave Wigan a chance, but Ben Watson’s injury-time header sealed a 1–0 victory and delivered one of the biggest shocks in recent FA Cup history.
4. Hereford United Shocks Newcastle United (1972)
One of the most famous giant-killing acts occurred in the third round of the 1972 FA Cup. Non-league Hereford United defeated first-division Newcastle United 2–1 after extra time. Ronnie Radford’s stunning long-range strike and Ricky George’s winner remain iconic moments in FA Cup history.
5. Bradford City Overcomes Chelsea (2015 Fourth Round)
In 2015, League One side Bradford City traveled to Stamford Bridge to face Chelsea, then managed by José Mourinho. Despite trailing 2–0, Bradford staged a remarkable comeback to win 4–2, knocking out the Premier League giants and shocking the football world.
6. Sutton United’s Historic Win Over Coventry City (1989)
In the third round of the 1989 FA Cup, non-league Sutton United defeated first-division Coventry City 2–1. Coventry had won the FA Cup just two years earlier, making Sutton’s victory even more astonishing.
7. Oldham Athletic’s Triumph Over Liverpool (2013 Fourth Round)
Oldham Athletic, a third-tier side, stunned Liverpool with a 3–2 victory in the fourth round of the 2013 FA Cup. Matt Smith’s two goals helped Oldham knock out their Premier League opponents in a thrilling encounter.
8. Lincoln City Beats Burnley (2017 Fifth Round)
Lincoln City became the first non-league team in over a century to reach the FA Cup quarterfinals when they defeated Premier League side Burnley 1–0. Sean Raggett’s late header secured the historic win.
9. Millwall’s Victory Over Everton (2019 Fourth Round)
Championship side Millwall defeated Premier League team Everton 3–2 in the fourth round of the 2019 FA Cup. A dramatic injury-time winner from Murray Wallace sealed the upset and demonstrated the unpredictable nature of the competition.
10. Shrewsbury Town’s Win Over Everton (2003 Third Round)
Shrewsbury Town, a third-division team, defeated Premier League side Everton 2–1 in the 2003 FA Cup third round. Nigel Jemson scored both goals, including a late winner, to send the underdogs through.
The Magic of the FA Cup
The FA Cup is celebrated not only for its prestige but also for its ability to deliver moments of pure footballing magic. These upsets remind us why the tournament holds a special place in the hearts of fans. It is a stage where dreams come true, where smaller clubs can write their names in history, and where the spirit of the game is on full display.
As the 2025 FA Cup unfolds, fans eagerly anticipate more giant-killing acts and unforgettable underdog stories. The beauty of the competition lies in its unpredictability and its ability to produce moments that transcend the sport.
Football fans can support their favorite teams and stay updated on all the latest FA Cup news and stories through the ACE66. Join the community and celebrate the magic of football’s oldest competition!
