History, for so long the playground of the powerful, has been undone this season. Rewritten not by oil-backed giants or perennial champions, but by teams who have waited decades , some nearly a century , for their moment under the sun. In 2025, football found its soul again.
Once known more for their fight for survival than silverware, Crystal Palace has lifted the first major trophy in their 119-year existence. Go Ahead Eagles, clad in celebratory green bathrobes, ended a 93-year wait to win the Dutch Cup, conquering AZ Alkmaar in a nervy penalty shootout. Newcastle, starved of domestic success since 1955, finally quenched the thirst of their loyal Geordie faithful. Bologna, defiant and dogged, clinch their first Coppa Italia in 51 years. And even Harry Kane — forever the symbol of unfulfilled greatness — finally has a league title to his name at 31.
This season has revived the belief that football still belongs to the dreamers.
Crystal Palace’s triumph wasn’t just a story of history made — it was a tactical and emotional crescendo. Under Oliver Glasner, they played with fearless verticality and defensive discipline. Eberechi Eze was their artist, dancing between lines with balletic grace, while Jean-Philippe Mateta became an unlikely talisman, turning chaos into goals with raw, redemptive power.
In their Carabao Cup triumph over Liverpool, Newcastle’s unity and tactical clarity shone through. Eddie Howe orchestrated the win with a disciplined, high-energy setup that suffocated Liverpool’s rhythm. Alexander Isak emerged as the standout performer. His clinical half-volley early in the second half doubled Newcastle’s lead, showcasing his composure and striking prowess on a grand stage. Isak’s performance not only secured the club’s first major domestic trophy in 70 years but also underscored his rising profile in European football, attracting attention from top clubs across the continent.
Dan Burn opened the scoring with a powerful header just before halftime, setting the tone for Newcastle’s determined display. Captain Bruno Guimarães orchestrated the midfield with poise, later describing the triumph as “the best day of my life,” reflecting the emotional significance of the win for both players and fans.
Tottenham did it against Manchester United as they won their first major title in over 17 years and their first ever European cup
So the Big question I want to ask is in the spirit of under Dogs can PSG eventually win the champions League this season
This has been a season of hope. A season that reminded us that football is not just business, not just broadcast rights and billion-dollar takeovers. Because no matter the odds, it’s still 11 against 11. One ball, two goals — and a chance for history. This is why we watch. This is why we believe.
https://medium.com/@thefootballfable/the-year-of-the-underdog-how-2025-rewrote-footballs-hierarchies-d8ba0e3dd642
