The FA Cup is one of the most historic and prestigious football tournaments in the world, celebrated for its unpredictability and giant-killing moments. Over the years, lower-league teams have defied the odds to knock out elite clubs, creating some of the most unforgettable upsets in football history. This article explores the biggest FA Cup shocks, analyzing what made them extraordinary and their impact on the competition.
1. Hereford United 2-1 Newcastle United (1972)
One of the most iconic FA Cup upsets took place in 1972 when non-league Hereford United stunned Newcastle United in the Third Round replay. After Newcastle took the lead through Malcolm Macdonald, Ronnie Radford’s stunning long-range strike equalized for Hereford. Ricky George’s extra-time winner sealed a historic victory, which remains one of the most celebrated giant-killings in FA Cup history.
Why It Was Unforgettable:
- Hereford was a non-league side, and Newcastle played in the First Division.
- Radford’s goal became one of the most replayed FA Cup moments.
- The win symbolized the magic of the FA Cup, where underdogs can thrive.
2. Sunderland 1-0 Leeds United (1973 Final)
Sunderland, a Second Division side at the time, faced the mighty Leeds United in the FA Cup final. Managed by Bob Stokoe, Sunderland defied expectations, with Ian Porterfield scoring the only goal of the match. The heroics of goalkeeper Jim Montgomery, who made a legendary double save, ensured Sunderland’s triumph.
Why It Was Unforgettable:
- Leeds were the reigning FA Cup champions and one of England’s top teams.
- Sunderland became the first Second Division club to win the FA Cup since 1931.
- Jim Montgomery’s double save remains one of the best in FA Cup history.
3. Wrexham 2-1 Arsenal (1992)
Wrexham, a Fourth Division club, faced Arsenal, the reigning English champions, in the Third Round. Arsenal took the lead through Alan Smith, but Wrexham equalized with a stunning free-kick from Mickey Thomas. Steve Watkin then scored the winner, completing one of the FA Cup’s greatest shocks.
Why It Was Unforgettable:
- Arsenal were the top team in England, while Wrexham finished last in their league the previous season.
- Mickey Thomas’ equalizer is considered one of the best FA Cup goals.
- It exemplified the unpredictable nature of the competition.
4. Shrewsbury Town 2-1 Everton (2003)
David Moyes’ Everton, a Premier League side, were expected to breeze past Shrewsbury Town, managed by former Everton captain Kevin Ratcliffe. However, Shrewsbury, then in the Third Division, shocked their opponents with a famous 2-1 victory, with Nigel Jemson scoring both goals.
Why It Was Unforgettable:
- Everton had a strong squad, including Wayne Rooney.
- Shrewsbury were struggling in the lower leagues and later got relegated that season.
- Kevin Ratcliffe masterminded the defeat of the club he once captained.
5. Bradford City 4-2 Chelsea (2015)
Chelsea, under José Mourinho, were league leaders and seemingly on course for an easy Fourth Round victory. When Chelsea went 2-0 up at Stamford Bridge, it seemed like game over. However, Bradford City, a League One side, produced an extraordinary comeback to win 4-2, shocking the footballing world.
Why It Was Unforgettable:
- Chelsea were top of the Premier League and at full strength.
- Bradford’s comeback from 2-0 down made the result even more remarkable.
- Mourinho later called it a “disgrace” and praised Bradford’s performance.
6. Lincoln City 1-0 Burnley (2017)
Lincoln City became the first non-league side in over a century to reach the FA Cup quarter-finals when they stunned Burnley at Turf Moor. The only goal of the match came in the dying minutes, courtesy of Sean Raggett, sparking wild celebrations.
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Why It Was Unforgettable:
- Lincoln were a non-league side competing against a Premier League team.
- They became the first non-league club in 103 years to reach the FA Cup quarter-finals.
- The tactical discipline and determination of Lincoln showcased the essence of the FA Cup.
7. Leicester City 1-2 Wycombe Wanderers (2001)
Leicester City, a Premier League club, were expected to ease past Wycombe Wanderers, a Second Division side. However, Wycombe produced a fairy-tale moment as Roy Essandoh, a last-minute signing, scored a dramatic late winner to send Wycombe into the FA Cup semi-finals.
Why It Was Unforgettable:
- Essandoh was signed after responding to a teletext advert.
- Wycombe, a lower-league side, reached the semi-finals against all odds.
- The dramatic late winner added to the magic of the cup.
Why FA Cup Upsets Are Special
The FA Cup thrives on unpredictability, allowing lower-league teams to compete against elite clubs and sometimes emerge victorious. These upsets embody the essence of the tournament, demonstrating that passion, resilience, and belief can overcome financial disparity and prestige.
Conclusion
FA Cup upsets remain one of the most thrilling aspects of football, proving that anything is possible in a knockout competition. As each season unfolds, fans eagerly anticipate the next big shock that will etch itself into football history. Whether it’s a non-league side overcoming a Premier League giant or a dramatic last-minute winner, the FA Cup will continue to deliver unforgettable moments for years to come.
