Football, often called “the beautiful game,” has seen some incredible matches with astonishingly one-sided results.
These lopsided victories have left an indelible mark on the sport’s history, showcasing both dominance and occasionally, the stark difference in skill levels.
Here are the ten biggest wins in football history, ranked:
10. Australia 31-0 American Samoa (2001)
In a FIFA World Cup qualifying match, Australia obliterated American Samoa with a record-breaking 31-0 victory. Archie Thompson scored 13 goals, setting a world record for most goals in an international match. ..Continue Reading
9. Arbroath 36-0 Bon Accord (1885)
This Scottish Cup match saw Arbroath annihilate Bon Accord 36-0. The game set the record for the highest score in any official football competition and remains an iconic part of football folklore.
8. Dundee Harp 35-0 Aberdeen Rovers (1885)
On the same day as Arbroath’s famous victory, Dundee Harp thrashed Aberdeen Rovers 35-0 in another Scottish Cup tie. This result is often overshadowed by Arbroath’s win but is equally remarkable.
7. AS Adema 149-0 SO l’Emyrne (2002)
In a bizarre Madagascan league match, AS Adema defeated SO l’Emyrne 149-0. SO l’Emyrne intentionally scored own goals to protest a refereeing decision, leading to this mind-boggling scoreline.
6. Tahiti 30-0 Cook Islands (1971)
During the South Pacific Games, Tahiti dismantled the Cook Islands with a 30-0 victory, showcasing the significant disparity in skill between the two teams at the time.
5. Villarreal 27-0 Navata (2009)
In a preseason friendly, Villarreal demolished Navata 27-0. The Spanish top-flight team demonstrated their dominance over the amateur side with this resounding win.
4. Germany 27-1 Russia (1992)
In the 1992 UEFA U16 Championship, Germany thrashed Russia 27-1, highlighting the significant gap in talent and preparation between the two youth teams.
3. Preston North End 26-0 Hyde United (1887)
In an English FA Cup match, Preston North End routed Hyde United 26-0. This match remains one of the most lopsided victories in the history of the competition.
2. Ajax 26-0 WHC Wezep (2010)
Ajax, a Dutch football giant, defeated WHC Wezep 26-0 in a Dutch Cup match. Ajax’s superior skill and experience were on full display in this overwhelming victory.
1. Police Machine FC 67-0 Bubayaro FC (2013)
In a Nigerian league match, Police Machine FC crushed Bubayaro FC 67-0. This result, along with Plateau United’s 79-0 win on the same day, led to suspicions of match-fixing and both teams were later suspended.
These astonishing results showcase the unpredictability and drama that football can deliver. While such one-sided matches are rare, they remain a testament to the sport’s capacity for remarkable and historic moments.