Football, as a sport, has produced many moments that have shocked many viewers. The 2022 FIFA World Cup being a prime example of the thrill and unpredictable nature the sport possesses.
After leading 3-2 in the dying moments of the 2022 FIFA World Cup final, French superstar Kylian Mbappe produced a stunning goal to send shivers down the Argentinian fans’ spine. I can still feel the shockers as if it happened right now.
The biggest sport in the world has produced many such unbelievable and shocking moments throughout history. From Luis Suarez’s biting incident to Liverpool’s impossible (made possible) comeback against Barcelona in the UEFA Champions League, the sport has seen it all.
In this article, we will be having a look at the top 11 moments that shocked the entire football world. Do let us know any shocking moments that you know of that you would like to include in this article.
1. Maradona’s ‘Hand of God’ Goal (1986)
Few moments in football history are as infamous as Diego Maradona’s “Hand of God” goal during the 1986 World Cup quarter-final between Argentina and England. In a swift move, Maradona punched the ball into England’s net with his hand, an act that went unnoticed by the referees but was caught by cameras. It sparked outrage and debate, but Maradona’s cheeky smile and later his extraordinary “Goal of the Century” solidified this as one of football’s most unforgettable moments.
2. Leicester City’s Premier League Triumph (2016)
No one saw this coming. Leicester City, a team that narrowly avoided relegation the previous season, defied 5000-1 odds to win the Premier League in 2016. Under the guidance of Claudio Ranieri, a squad of underdogs played fearless football, beating giants like Manchester City, Chelsea, and Arsenal along the way. This fairytale run is celebrated as one of the greatest underdog stories in sports history.
3. Zidane’s Headbutt in the 2006 World Cup Final
Zinedine Zidane’s headbutt on Marco Materazzi in the 2006 World Cup final between France and Italy was shocking, to say the least. In what was supposed to be the legendary midfielder’s grand farewell, Zidane was sent off in extra time for his violent reaction to Materazzi’s provocation. The moment not only marred Zidane’s career but also changed the course of the match, which Italy went on to win on penalties.
4. Brazil’s 1-7 Humiliation by Germany (2014 World Cup)
The semi-final of the 2014 World Cup saw one of the most stunning results in football history. Host nation Brazil, five-time champions, faced Germany, but nobody could have predicted the ensuing devastation. Germany thrashed Brazil 7-1, with five goals coming in the first 30 minutes. It wasn’t just a loss; it was a national tragedy that left fans in tears and a footballing powerhouse in disbelief.
5. Eric Cantona’s Kung Fu Kick (1995)
Manchester United’s Eric Cantona was known for his flair on the pitch and his fiery temper, but no one could have predicted what happened on January 25, 1995. After being sent off against Crystal Palace, Cantona launched a kung fu-style kick into the stands, attacking a fan who had insulted him. The shocking incident led to a lengthy suspension and a hefty fine, forever cementing Cantona’s reputation as one of football’s most enigmatic figures.
6. The Miracle of Istanbul (2005)
When Liverpool went 3-0 down to AC Milan at halftime in the 2005 Champions League final, most thought the game was over. But what followed was nothing short of miraculous. Liverpool scored three goals in six minutes to level the game before winning on penalties in one of the most dramatic comebacks in football history. It remains a defining moment of resilience, faith, and pure determination.
7. Andres Escobar’s Tragic End (1994)
Colombian defender Andres Escobar’s own goal against the USA in the 1994 World Cup led to Colombia’s early exit from the tournament, but the aftermath was even more shocking. Escobar was tragically murdered in his home country just days after returning, allegedly by someone who had bet heavily on Colombia. His death sent shockwaves through the footballing world, a grim reminder of the darker side of the sport.
8. Denmark’s Euro 1992 Victory
Denmark didn’t even qualify for the 1992 European Championship initially, but when Yugoslavia was disqualified due to the Balkan conflict, the Danes were given a last-minute spot. To everyone’s surprise, they not only participated but went on to win the tournament, beating reigning champions Holland in the semis and favorites Germany in the final. It was a true fairy tale for a team that came from nowhere to conquer Europe.
9. Thierry Henry’s Handball Against Ireland (2009)
In a World Cup qualifying playoff between France and Ireland, Thierry Henry handled the ball twice before setting up William Gallas for the winning goal, sending France to the 2010 World Cup. The blatant handball went unnoticed by the referees, leading to worldwide condemnation and a renewed call for video technology in football. Ireland’s hopes were shattered, and Henry’s reputation took a significant hit.
10. Barcelona’s Historic Comeback Against PSG (2017)
Down 4-0 after the first leg of their Champions League Round of 16 tie against Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona needed a miracle to advance. And a miracle they got. In the return leg at the Camp Nou, Barcelona overturned the deficit with a 6-1 victory, capped by a last-minute goal from Sergi Roberto. It was a night of pure drama, as Barcelona pulled off the greatest comeback in UEFA Champions League history.
11. The Munich Air Disaster (1958)
On February 6, 1958, a plane carrying the Manchester United team, journalists, and supporters crashed on takeoff in Munich, killing 23 people, including eight players. The tragedy rocked the football world, but it also united it. The resilience of the survivors, and the rebuilding of the team by Sir Matt Busby, who was critically injured in the crash, became a story of hope and strength. It remains one of football’s most poignant and unforgettable moments.
12. Roberto Baggio – The Man Who Died Standing (1994 World Cup)
Roberto Baggio, one of Italy’s greatest footballers, had a World Cup to remember in 1994, carrying his team to the final with dazzling performances. However, in the final match against Brazil, Baggio’s story took a shocking turn. With the game tied after extra time, it all came down to penalties. Baggio, known for his grace and skill, sent his penalty soaring over the crossbar, handing Brazil the victory. It was a moment of utter heartbreak, and Baggio stood motionless, devastated – forever earning the nickname “The Man Who Died Standing.”
13. Robin van Persie – The Flying Dutchman (2014 World Cup)
In the 2014 FIFA World Cup, Dutch striker Robin van Persie stunned the world with a goal that defied gravity. Against Spain, Van Persie made a perfectly timed run and launched himself into the air to meet a long pass with a flying header that looped over the goalkeeper and into the net. The goal, which came to be known as “The Flying Dutchman,” was an unforgettable display of athleticism and creativity, leaving everyone in awe of Van Persie’s remarkable feat.
So, here’s it. These were the top 13 shocking moments in the football world. Comment below any shocking football moment that you think deserves a mention in this list.
