Cape Verde’s shock 0-0 draw against Spain at the World Cup has reignited discussion about the biggest surprises in tournament history, particularly those where underdogs have challenged or defeated traditional football powers. The result has been described as another entry in a long line of unexpected outcomes on football’s biggest stage, with Bulgaria also featuring prominently among them.
One of the earliest modern examples came in 1950, when the United States stunned England 1-0 in Brazil. England arrived as heavy favorites, widely expected to dominate a side considered largely amateur. Instead, a goal from Joe Gaetjens secured a historic upset, while both teams ultimately failed to progress from the group stage.
In 1966, North Korea produced another landmark shock by defeating Italy 1-0. The winning goal from Pak Doo-ik eliminated the European side and sent the DPRK into the quarter-finals, where they famously led Portugal 3-0 before losing 5-3. The Italian defeat sparked major backlash at home, with the national team greeted by angry reactions upon their return.
Algeria’s 2-1 victory over West Germany in 1982 marked the first time an African team defeated a European powerhouse at the World Cup. Goals from Rabah Madjer and Lakhdar Belloumi secured the win against a German side featuring stars such as Karl-Heinz Rummenigge. Despite two wins in the group stage, Algeria was controversially eliminated in what became known as the “Disgrace of Gijón.”
