Underdogs Unleashed: 5 Shocking Champions League Upsets in Recent History

The UEFA Champions League: where the best of the best battle it out, and sometimes, the underdogs steal the show. If you’re a fan of football—or soccer, for my American friends—you know the thrill of a good upset. And we might be in for another one, with the Schwarzgelbe having an unexpected run in the tournament - we’ll see in just a couple of weeks.

Let’s dive into five of the biggest upsets in recent Champions League history. Buckle up, because these stories are wild.

Dortmund vs. PSG (2023-24 Semifinals)

Let’s start with the freshest shocker on our list. Borussia Dortmund pulled off a jaw-dropping victory against PSG in this year's UCL semifinals. Paris Saint Germain, with their star-studded lineup including Mbappé, were the clear favourites. But Dortmund didn’t read the script.

Their defence was nothing short of heroic, and lady luck was on their side as PSG hit the post more times than I hit snooze on a Monday morning. Mats Hummels, the old warhorse, scored a crucial goal off a corner kick, and the rest was history. PSG fans were left crying into their croissants as Dortmund marched on to the final.

Lyon vs. Manchester City (2019-20 Quarterfinals)

Remember when Lyon made Manchester City look like a Sunday league team? That was fun. In the 2019-20 quarterfinals, Lyon shocked the football world with a 3-1 victory over Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City. City, stacked with talent and expectations, was supposed to breeze through.

But Lyon had other plans. They played with grit, determination, and a sprinkle of magic. Moussa Dembélé’s late brace sealed the deal, and City’s dreams of European glory were dashed yet again. Pep was left scratching his bald head, and the football world was reminded that money can’t buy you everything.

Ajax vs. Real Madrid (2018-19 Round of 16)

If you love a good underdog story, Ajax’s 4-1 thrashing of Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu in 2019 is a classic. After losing 2-1 at home, nobody gave Ajax much of a chance. But this young team, brimming with talent and fearless energy, stunned the defending champions.

Dusan Tadic danced through Madrid’s defence like it was a Sunday stroll in the park, and before you knew it, Ajax had scored four. Real Madrid, with their galaxy of stars, were left in the dust. It was a masterclass in fearless football and a reminder that youth and vitality can conquer experience and reputation.

Roma vs. FC Barcelona (2017-18 Quarterfinals)

Who could forget Roma’s unbelievable comeback against Barcelona? After losing 4-1 in the first leg, Roma needed a miracle. And they got one. In the return leg at the Stadio Olimpico, Roma played like men possessed.

Edin Džeko opened the scoring early, and the belief started to grow. Daniele De Rossi added a second from the penalty spot, and then Kostas Manolas sent the home crowd into delirium with a header that made it 3-0. Barcelona, one of the most formidable teams in the world, were out. It was football at its most dramatic and a night that will live long in the memory of Roma fans.

Chelsea FC vs. FC Bayern Munich (2011-12 Final)

Alright, this one’s a bit older, but it’s too good to leave out. Chelsea’s victory over Bayern Munich in the 2012 final is the stuff of legends. Bayern, playing in their stadium, were the overwhelming favourites. But Chelsea, under interim manager Roberto Di Matteo, had a different idea.

Bayern dominated the game, but Didier Drogba’s late header forced extra time. Petr Čech saved an Arjen Robben penalty, and the match went to a shootout. Drogba, in his final kick for Chelsea, sealed the victory. It was a fairy-tale ending for the Blues and a heartbreaker for Bayern.

So, there you have it—five of the biggest upsets in recent Champions League history. These matches remind us why we love football: for its unpredictability, its drama, and the sheer joy of seeing the underdog triumph.

Got any other epic upsets we missed? Drop them in the comments and let’s relive those shocking moments together. And hey, if you’re feeling inspired, why not check out some classic matches? You never know when the next big upset will happen. Game on!