We wanted to take a look back at some recent FA Cup upsets. We all know that the FA Cup represents the enchanting essence of English football, where lower-league teams can look to overcome the formidable Premier League clubs with their financial might. When they do, these memorable instances showcase the game’s unpredictability and the true spirit of competition. Here are seven of the most unforgettable FA Cup upsets in which English Football League (EFL) teams emerged victorious against Premier League rivals.
1. Wigan Athletic vs. Manchester City (2018)
Wigan Athletic, then a League One team, took on Pep Guardiola’s formidable Manchester City in the fifth round. At the time, premier league punters would have said that it might be best to place your bets on Pep’s team, as the odds would have certainly suggested a comfortable win for Pep’s City team. However, in a stunning turn of events, Will Grigg’s second-half goal secured a 1-0 victory, eliminating a side that would eventually clinch the Premier League title that season. This win brought back memories of Wigan’s FA Cup final victory over City in 2013, reinforcing their status as giant-killers.
2. Lincoln City vs. Burnley (2017)
Lincoln City, a non-league club, made headlines by beating Premier League side Burnley 1-0 in the fifth round. Sean Raggett’s header in the 89th minute shocked the crowd at Turf Moor, making Lincoln the first non-league team in over a century to reach the FA Cup quarter-finals.
3. Bradford City vs. Chelsea (2015)
Bradford City, competing in League One, delivered one of the most remarkable comebacks in FA Cup history. After falling behind 2-0 at Stamford Bridge against José Mourinho’s Chelsea, Bradford rallied to win 4-2. Goals from Filipe Morais, Andy Halliday, and Mark Yeates sent ripples through English football, prompting Mourinho to label the loss a “disgrace.”
4. Oldham Athletic vs. Liverpool (2013)
In the fourth round, League One’s Oldham Athletic stunned Brendan Rodgers’ Liverpool with a thrilling 3-2 victory at Boundary Park. Matt Smith netted two goals, dismantling a Liverpool squad that included stars like Luis Suárez and Steven Gerrard. Oldham’s physical style proved too challenging for their Premier League rivals.
5. Millwall vs. Everton (2019)
Millwall, a Championship club, clashed with Everton in a hard-fought fourth-round match at The Den. The Lions clinched a dramatic 3-2 win with a last-minute goal from Murray Wallace, sending their Premier League opponents home early. The fervent home crowd and Millwall’s relentless spirit were crucial to this upset.
6. Shrewsbury Town vs. Everton (2003)
In a stunning upset, Shrewsbury Town, a Third Division team, defeated Premier League side Everton 2-1 in the third round. Under the management of former Everton striker Kevin Ratcliffe, Shrewsbury’s Nigel Jemson scored both goals, sending the Toffees packing and highlighting the enchanting nature of the FA Cup.
7. Sutton United vs. Coventry City (1989)
One of the most memorable upsets in FA Cup history occurred when non-league Sutton United triumphed over Coventry City with a score of 2-1 in the third round. Coventry had lifted the FA Cup just two years prior, making this defeat even more surprising. Sutton’s win has become a legendary part of FA Cup history.
Anything can happen
These remarkable matches remind us why the FA Cup holds such a special place in the hearts of fans. They demonstrate that in football, anything can happen, and the underdog can rise to the occasion. These magical moments continue to inspire both players and supporters, showcasing the beautiful unpredictability of the sport.
