The 2024/25 European football season drew to a close this weekend, marking a campaign filled with surprises and moments of historic significance. For many clubs, it was a season of redemption as they ended long-standing trophy droughts, some stretching back over a century.
What made this season truly remarkable was the rise of underdog teams that defied the odds, secured major trophies, and captured the hearts of their fans with determination and passion.
Newcastle United was among the most celebrated winners, ending a 70-year wait for domestic silverware by claiming the Carabao Cup in a thrilling victory against Liverpool. Their triumph not only brought joy to supporters but also marked a significant milestone in the club’s history, showcasing their resilience and ambition to reclaim a place among England’s top contenders. The victory was seen as a turning point for Newcastle, signalling a new era of competitiveness.
In a historic moment for the FA Cup, Crystal Palace lifted their first major trophy in 164 years of existence by beating Manchester City 1–0 in the final. This victory was a testament to the club’s perseverance and the growing strength of South London’s side, finally ending more than a century and a half of longing for silverware. The win ignited celebrations among fans who had waited generations for this breakthrough.
Tottenham Hotspur ended a 17-year trophy drought by clinching the Europa League title with a 1–0 victory over Manchester United. The triumph was celebrated as a symbol of their resurgence and determination to reclaim European glory. The win was particularly sweet for Spurs supporters, who have endured years of near misses, and it signaled a promising future for the club on the continental stage.
Elsewhere in Italy, Bologna brought joy to their fans by ending a 51-year trophy drought with a 1–0 win over AC Milan in the Coppa Italia. The Italian club’s triumph was a reminder of football’s unpredictability—where perseverance can lead to historic success. Similarly, Stuttgart captured their first major honour in 18 years by winning the DFB-Pokal for the first time since 1997, ending an era of near misses and disappointment.
Finally, Aberdeen’s victory in the Scottish Cup against Celtic marked a significant milestone for the Scottish club—their first win in the competition in 35 years. The result was a proud moment for Aberdeen supporters, symbolizing resilience and the relentless pursuit of glory.
The season’s stories of triumph for these underdog teams have added a layer of excitement and unpredictability to the beautiful game, proving once again that passion and determination can rewrite history.
