Greatest World Cup Upsets in History
Every World Cup delivers moments where underdogs defy expectations and football's unpredictability shines.
Classic Shocks
USA 1-0 England 1950
One of football's earliest shocks — the United States beat England in the 1950 group stage, eliminating the favorites.
North Korea 1-0 Italy 1966
Pak Doo-ik's goal sent defending champions Italy home in the group stage in one of football's most stunning results.
Modern Giant Killings
Senegal 1-0 France 2002
Debutants Senegal beat defending champions France in the opening game of the 2002 World Cup group stage.
Germany 0-2 South Korea 2018
Holders Germany were eliminated by South Korea with two late goals, their earliest ever World Cup exit.
Recent Shocks
Saudi Arabia 2-1 Argentina
Heavy favorites Argentina suffered a shock opening defeat against Saudi Arabia before recovering to win the tournament.
Japan's Double Upset 2022
Consecutive victories over Germany and Spain in the same group stage remains one of the most remarkable collective performances.