Wamma! In 1950, the USA were a team of amateurs — postmen, schoolteachers, factory workers. They had lost their previous seven international games by a combined score of 45-2. England were the kings of football, expected to win the World Cup. And then in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, the IMPOSSIBLE happened. Joe Gaetjens scored a header. The Americans HELD ON. England lost 1-0. The result was so unbelievable that British newspapers refused to print it, thinking it was a typo!
Year: 1950 Match: USA vs England Location: Estádio Independência, Belo Horizonte Round: Group Stage Category: Upset
The Moment
- USA were amateurs with a part-time team featuring postmen, dishwashers, and teachers
- England were the strongest team in the world and overwhelming favorites to win the tournament
- Haitian-born Joe Gaetjens scored the only goal with a header in the 38th minute
- British newspapers reportedly printed the score as 'USA 10-1 England' assuming it was a typo
- England were eliminated from the 1950 World Cup as a direct result of this stunning defeat
The Verdict
USA 1-0 England in 1950 is regularly named the biggest upset in World Cup history. A team of amateurs beating the football kingdom that INVENTED the game. The match was so shocking that history barely believed it happened. A timeless reminder that on the World Cup stage, FAIRYTALES can come true!
Tomorrow: #24 — Stay tuned for the next magical World Cup moment!
