The Year of the Underdogs: 2025’s Historic First-Time Trophy Wins in Football
In 2025, football witnessed a remarkable shift—a season where underdog clubs rose from the shadows to lift trophies, rewriting their history in unforgettable fashion. From Paris to Bologna, and Selhurst Park to St. James' Park, this was the year the beautiful game belonged to the dreamers.
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Paris Saint-Germain 5-0 Inter Milan |
Paris Saint-Germain’s First Champions League Triumph
On 31 May 2025, Paris Saint-Germain finally conquered Europe with a sensational 5–0 rout of Inter Milan in the Champions League final—securing their first-ever title in the competition. This emphatic victory, achieved in Munich's Allianz Arena, was PSG's crowning achievement of a season that included Ligue 1 and the Coupe de France—completing a historic continental treble. The youthful core of the team shone brightly, with teenage sensation Désiré Doué scoring twice and steering the future of PSG toward a bold new era.
Crystal Palace’s First Major Trophy
On 17 May 2025, Crystal Palace defeated Manchester City 1–0 in the FA Cup final—marking their first major trophy in the club’s history. Daniel Muñoz’s pivotal performance, along with Eberechi Eze’s early goal, sealed a dream moment at Wembley. The victory wasn’t just silverware—it was a turning point for the fanbase and English football, fueled by optimism and relentless belief.
Newcastle United Ends a 70-Year Trophy Drought
March 2025 brought jubilation to Newcastle United, as they lifted the Carabao Cup with a 2–1 win over Liverpool—ending a 70-year wait for major silverware. Heroes Dan Burn and Alexander Isak starred in the final, sparking wild celebrations in the streets of Tyneside. For the Magpies and their supporters, this victory was more than a trophy—it was catharsis.
Tottenham’s Return to Europe via Europa League Glory
In May 2025, Tottenham Hotspur claimed the UEFA Europa League—securing their first European trophy since 1984 and ending a 17-year wait for silverware. Head coach Ange Postecoglou became the first Australian manager to win a major European title, while Son Heung-min emerged as the first Asia-Pacific captain to lift continental club silverware. Despite this success, Spurs made the surprising decision to part ways with Postecoglou shortly afterward.
Bologna’s Coppa Italia Breakthrough
Italian side Bologna closed a five-decade trophy drought by lifting the Coppa Italia in 2025, bringing joy to their loyal fans and putting them back on the national stage. From celebrations in Germany to street parties across Bologna, the 2025 underdog narrative reshaped football culture across Europe.
What Made 2025 the “Year of the Underdogs”?
2025 became synonymous with resurgence and resurgence stories. Clubs long viewed as underachievers—like Crystal Palace, Newcastle, Tottenham, and Bologna—all defied the odds to end long-lasting trophy droughts. These triumphs highlighted football’s increasing unpredictability and its power to reward belief, innovation, and resilience.
❓ FAQ: The Underdog Moment in Football
Why did so many underdog teams succeed in 2025?
A combination of managerial innovation, squad depth, and belief aligned perfectly—proving that smart planning and grit can overcome historical disadvantages.
Did any of these teams win multiple trophies?
Yes—PSG achieved a treble, lifting Ligue 1, Coupe de France, and their first Champions League in the same season.
Is this trend expected to continue?
Many clubs are using 2025 as a springboard. PSG seems poised for continued dominance, while others—like Palace and Newcastle—must sustain momentum to remain competitive.
Conclusion
2025 will go down in football history as the year underdogs took center stage—challenging expectations, topping leagues, and inspiring millions. From monumental firsts to emotional narratives, this was football rediscovered. Which underdog story moved you the most? Let me know in the comments below!
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