The English Premier League (EPL) is known for its elite clubs, but it’s also a league where underdog stories unfold, capturing the hearts of fans worldwide. From unexpected title wins to miraculous survival stories, certain clubs have defied the odds and achieved the seemingly impossible. Here are some of the greatest underdog stories in Premier League history.
1. Leicester City’s Title-Winning Season (2015-16)
Perhaps the greatest underdog story in football history, Leicester City defied 5,000-1 odds to win the Premier League title in the 2015-16 season. Managed by Claudio Ranieri, Leicester stunned the world with their relentless performances.
- Key Players: Jamie Vardy, Riyad Mahrez, and N’Golo Kanté were instrumental in their success.
- Significance: Leicester’s title win remains an inspiration, proving that anything is possible in football.
This fairytale season was a reminder that dreams can come true, even against the odds.
2. Blackburn Rovers’ Premier League Triumph (1994-95)
Before the era of mega-rich clubs, Blackburn Rovers clinched the Premier League title in 1995 under manager Kenny Dalglish. Though not entirely unfancied, they were still competing against heavyweights like Manchester United.
- Key Players: Alan Shearer and Chris Sutton formed a formidable partnership known as the ‘SAS.’
- Significance: Blackburn’s win was a remarkable achievement for a smaller club and remains their only top-flight title in the modern era.
Blackburn’s triumph stands as a symbol of determination and ambition in the early Premier League years.
3. Wigan Athletic’s FA Cup Victory (2012-13)
Though not a Premier League title, Wigan Athletic’s FA Cup victory over Manchester City was an unforgettable underdog moment. Despite being relegated that same season, Wigan’s victory is remembered as one of the greatest FA Cup upsets.
- Key Players: Ben Watson scored the winning goal, cementing his place in Wigan folklore.
- Significance: Wigan’s triumph showed that lower-ranked teams could compete with the best on their day.
The FA Cup victory remains a shining moment in Wigan’s history and a testament to the magic of English football.
4. West Ham’s Great Escape (2006-07)
West Ham United looked destined for relegation in the 2006-07 season, but a miraculous late-season run saved them from the drop. With Carlos Tevez in top form, West Ham pulled off what became known as ‘The Great Escape.’
- Key Players: Carlos Tevez scored critical goals that helped West Ham avoid relegation.
- Significance: West Ham’s comeback demonstrated the resilience required to survive in the Premier League.
This dramatic survival story remains a highlight for West Ham fans and a classic underdog tale.
5. Portsmouth’s FA Cup Win (2007-08)
Portsmouth defied the odds to lift the FA Cup in 2008, defeating Cardiff City in the final. Under manager Harry Redknapp, they completed a stunning cup run despite facing financial difficulties in later years.
- Key Players: Nwankwo Kanu scored the winning goal, leading Portsmouth to a historic win.
- Significance: Portsmouth’s victory brought joy to their fans and gave them a cherished piece of silverware.
The FA Cup win remains a significant moment in Portsmouth’s history and is celebrated by their fans to this day.
6. Ipswich Town’s Promising Season (2000-01)
As a newly promoted team, Ipswich Town achieved a top-five finish in the 2000-01 season under manager George Burley. They were expected to struggle, but instead qualified for the UEFA Cup, showcasing exceptional performances.
- Key Players: Marcus Stewart’s goalscoring prowess was crucial to Ipswich’s success.
- Significance: Ipswich’s achievement remains one of the best performances by a promoted team in EPL history.
Their performance was a testament to hard work and belief, making Ipswich one of the most memorable underdogs of the Premier League era.
7. Sheffield United’s Strong Return (2019-20)
After being promoted, Sheffield United shocked everyone with their impressive performances in the 2019-20 season, finishing ninth and competing well against top teams.
- Key Players: Dean Henderson’s goalkeeping and John Fleck’s creativity were pivotal to their success.
- Significance: Sheffield United’s season exemplified tactical discipline and teamwork, inspiring newly promoted clubs.
This season served as a reminder that newly promoted teams can achieve great things in the Premier League.
8. Burnley’s Europa League Qualification (2017-18)
Burnley, a team with limited resources compared to other EPL clubs, qualified for the Europa League in the 2017-18 season, finishing seventh under manager Sean Dyche.
- Key Players: Nick Pope’s shot-stopping and Ashley Barnes’ attacking contributions were vital.
- Significance: Burnley’s qualification for Europe was a remarkable feat, achieved through discipline and hard work.
Their performance was a testament to the grit and determination required to compete in the Premier League.
9. Swansea City’s First EPL Season (2011-12)
In their debut Premier League season, Swansea City captured the hearts of fans with their attractive style of play under manager Brendan Rodgers. Finishing in 11th place, they exceeded expectations.
- Key Players: Michu and Gylfi Sigurðsson were standout performers who quickly became fan favorites.
- Significance: Swansea’s success as a newly promoted team encouraged other clubs to believe in their own philosophies.
Their journey remains an inspiration for promoted clubs aiming to make an impact in the EPL.
10. Bradford City’s Survival (1999-2000)
Bradford City managed to avoid relegation on the final day of their first Premier League season, defeating Liverpool in a stunning survival story.
- Key Players: David Wetherall scored the winning goal that secured Bradford’s place in the EPL for another season.
- Significance: Bradford’s survival was a thrilling underdog story and is still celebrated by the club’s fans.
Their escape from relegation is one of the most memorable underdog achievements in EPL history.
Conclusion
These underdog stories capture the essence of the Premier League, showing that with determination and teamwork, any club can achieve greatness. The success of these clubs reminds fans why football is so unpredictable and beloved around the world. Whether lifting trophies or surviving against the odds, these clubs have left an indelible mark on EPL history.
