Top 10 Biggest Wins in Football History: Football is cherished for its thrilling unpredictability and dramatic flair. Occasionally, the game delivers results so astonishing that they leave fans utterly speechless and become legendary. Let’s delve into the top 10 biggest wins in football history, highlighting some of the most extraordinary and unforgettable victories ever witnessed on the pitch.
Let’s take a Look at the Top 10 Biggest Wins in Football History
10. China 19-0 Guam
In a match during the 2000 Asian Cup qualifiers, China delivered a staggering performance against Guam. At this time, China was a formidable side, ranked 112 places higher than the amateur Guam team. Managed by former Newcastle United goalkeeper Willie McFaul, Guam struggled against a vastly superior Chinese side. The result was a jaw-dropping 19-0 victory for China. This match was a clear reflection of the vast gulf in footballing standards, with China eventually making it to the Asian Cup semifinals and qualifying for their first-ever World Cup in 2002.
9. Iran 19-0 Guam
Barely a year after Guam’s crushing defeat to China, they faced another heavy loss against Iran during the 2002 World Cup qualifiers. Once again under the management of Willie McFaul, Guam was on the receiving end of a 19-0 drubbing. This time, Iran’s Karim Bagheri was the standout performer, scoring an impressive six goals, including two hat-tricks. The match highlighted Guam’s ongoing struggles at the international level and Iran’s dominance in the region.
8. Kuwait 20-0 Bhutan
Bhutan, a nation new to international football, faced an overwhelming challenge against Kuwait during the 2000 Asian Cup qualifiers. Just a few days after their first official match, Bhutan was up against a strong Kuwaiti team. Despite a goalless first 20 minutes, the inexperience of Bhutan eventually showed as Kuwait scored 20 goals, including four penalties. Bashar Abdullah was the hero for Kuwait, scoring eight goals in this record-breaking 20-0 victory. The match demonstrated the sharp contrast between seasoned football nations and emerging teams.
7. Guam 0-21 North Korea
Guam found themselves on the wrong end of another massive defeat in 2005 when they faced North Korea in the East Asian Football Championships. North Korea, aiming to improve their goal difference, easily dismantled Guam, winning 21-0. The match saw Kim Kwang-hyok shine, scoring seven of the 21 goals. This match was a testament to North Korea’s offensive prowess and Guam’s ongoing difficulties in international football.
6. Tonga 0-22 Australia
In a World Cup qualifier in 2002, Australia faced Tonga and did not hold back. Australia’s manager, Frank Farina, fielded a strong lineup, resulting in a ruthless performance. The Socceroos registered an extraordinary 22-0 win over Tonga. Coventry City forward John Aliosi was the standout player, netting six goals in the match. This game highlighted Australia’s dominance and their ability to capitalize on the weaknesses of lower-ranked teams.
5. Preston North End 26-0 Hyde
In the 1880s, English team Preston North End was a dominant force, and their FA Cup match against Hyde is a prime example of their superiority. Preston North End, led by William Sudell, was on an impressive 41-match unbeaten streak when they faced Hyde, a team that had only been professional for two years. Preston showed no mercy, scoring 26 goals, with Jimmy Ross contributing seven goals. The 26-0 victory starkly demonstrated Preston North End’s dominance during this period.
4. Tahiti 30-0 Cook Islands
During the 1971 South Pacific Games, Tahiti set an incredible record with a 30-0 victory over the Cook Islands. The Cook Islands had just suffered a 16-1 defeat to Papua New Guinea and were overwhelmed by Tahiti’s attacking prowess. The final scoreline of 30-0 reflected Tahiti’s dominance and the Cook Islands’ lack of experience on the international stage.
3. Australia 31-0 American Samoa
Australia’s 2002 World Cup qualifier against American Samoa remains one of the most significant wins in football history. The Socceroos delivered a relentless offensive display, ending the match with a 31-0 victory. Archie Thompson was the star of the show, scoring a world-record 13 goals. This game not only showcased Australia’s attacking strength but also highlighted the vast disparity between the teams in the World Cup qualifiers.
2. Dundee Harp 35-0 Aberdeen Rovers
In the 1885 Scottish Cup, Dundee Harp faced Aberdeen Rovers, who fielded only ten players. This numerical disadvantage proved costly, as Dundee Harp capitalized on the opportunity and scored an astonishing 35 goals. By halftime, Dundee Harp had already taken a commanding 16-0 lead, and they continued their dominance in the second half. The match was a testament to Dundee Harp’s attacking efficiency and Aberdeen Rovers’ struggles under the circumstances.
1. Arbroath 36-0 Bon Accord
The biggest win in football history occurred in the 1885 Scottish Cup when Arbroath defeated Bon Accord 36-0. Arbroath achieved this record-breaking scoreline on the same day Dundee Harp set their record with a 35-0 win. Despite having seven goals ruled out for offside, Arbroath’s dominance was clear. The 36-0 victory remains the highest margin of victory ever recorded in professional football, showcasing an unmatched level of supremacy on the pitch.
Read more: 5 Highest Goal Scorers in ISL History: Legends of the Indian Super League
FAQ
What is the biggest win in football history?
The biggest win in football history is Arbroath’s 36-0 victory over Bon Accord in the 1885 Scottish Cup.
