10 Greatest Football Matches

By Ian John

Choosing the top 10 football matches ever is like picking the 10 most precious jewels from the Crown Jewels of England. It’s tough! This is because what makes a match great is subjective and depends on personal taste. Still, we came up with some rules to help us make this list.

The rules are simple:

1. Fair competition: No one-sided games allowed! Both teams should be evenly matched, and the game should be a real battle.
2. What’s at stake?: The bigger the prize, the better the match! Being able to perform well when it matters most is super important in sports, and football is no exception.
3. Good quality play: The game should be played well. Think crisp passes, creative plays, and a smooth flow with minimal fouls.
4. Drama: Just like in a good movie, the match should keep you on the edge of your seat. It should make you feel all sorts of emotions, from sadness to joy.
5. Big names and amazing plays: A great match needs great players!

From unforgettable comebacks to heart-stopping finales, each game listed here stands out for its unique story, showcasing the unpredictable thrill that football brings to fans worldwide. For enthusiasts who enjoy tracking these memorable moments or placing wagers on football’s unpredictable outcomes, discovering platforms like 1XBET can add an extra dimension to the experience, allowing them to engage with the game on a new level.

Liverpool vs Chelsea | 4-4 (2008-09 UEFACL 2nd Leg)

Leading up to this match, Liverpool and Chelsea had played each other 24 times in five years. Most of those matches ended in draws, especially when Jose Mourinho coached Chelsea, and Rafael Benitez led Liverpool.

Chelsea was ahead 3-1 from the first leg. Liverpool needed to win by three goals to move forward. They got off to a good start when Fabio Aurelio scored with a wide free kick. Xabi Alonso scored again in the 28th minute.

Chelsea fought back hard, scoring twice in six minutes (51st and 57th minutes) with goals from Drogba and Alex. Lampard then gave Chelsea the lead.

But Liverpool didn’t give up. Lucas and Kuyt scored two goals in two minutes (81st and 83rd minutes), putting Liverpool back on top. However, Lampard scored again, crushing Liverpool’s hopes and helping Chelsea advance to the semifinals.

Liverpool vs Alaves | 5-4 (2001 UEFA Cup Final)

Before the Istanbul Miracle, there was this incredible match in Dortmund in 2001. Liverpool was in a European Cup Final for the first time since the Heysel tragedy.

Liverpool took the lead with a header from Markus Babbel, followed by another goal from Steven Gerrard. But Alaves fought back, equalizing with goals from Ivan Alonso.

Liverpool thought they had won when they went ahead 3-1 on a penalty by Gary McAllister. But Alaves came back again, scoring twice to level the game.

In extra time, Liverpool finally won with an own goal from Defi Geli, completing a historic treble.

France vs Portugal | 2-1 (Euro 2000 SF)

In this semifinal, Zinedine Zidane and Luiz Figo, two of Europe’s best players, faced off for a chance to play in the final against Italy.

Portugal took the lead with a goal from Nuno Gomes, but France equalized with a goal from Thierry Henry.

Zidane showed why he was one of the best, delivering an amazing performance. He scored the winning goal with a penalty in extra time, sending France to the final.

Brazil vs England | 1-0 (1970 WC Round Robin)

This match between the last two World Champions was highly anticipated. It’s known as ‘The Final That Never Was.’

Both teams had great chances, but Brazil scored the only goal, securing the win.

West Germany vs Hungary | 3-2 (1954 WC Final)

This match, known as ‘The Miracle of Berne,’ is considered one of the biggest upsets in football history.

Hungary took an early 2-0 lead, but West Germany fought back to level the score before halftime. Then, they scored again to win the match.

Liverpool vs AC Milan | 3-3 (2005 UEFACL Final)

This match, called ‘The Istanbul Miracle,’ was an emotional roller coaster.

AC Milan took a 3-0 lead, but Liverpool fought back to equalize, and then won in a penalty shootout.

Argentina vs England | 2-1 (1986 WC QF)

This match is remembered for Diego Maradona’s famous ‘Hand of God’ goal.

Maradona scored two goals, including one of the greatest goals ever, leading Argentina to victory.

Manchester United vs Bayern Munich | 2-1 (1999 UEFACL Final)

This match is remembered for Manchester United’s dramatic comeback.

Bayern took the lead, but United scored twice in stoppage time to win the match.

Brazil vs Italy | 3-3 (France Tournament 1997)

This match is considered one of the greatest exhibition matches ever.

Italy took the lead, but Brazil fought back to equalize three times, showcasing amazing skill and talent.

Italy vs West Germany | 4-3 (1970 WC SF)

This match is known as ‘The Game of the Century’ for its excitement and drama.

Italy and West Germany played an incredible match, with Italy winning in extra time.

Each of these matches has left an indelible mark on the annals of football history, embodying the spirit of competition, resilience, and sheer brilliance that defines the beautiful game. As fans, we are privileged to have witnessed such unforgettable moments that continue to inspire generations of football enthusiasts around the globe.