The World Cup is the perfect stage for an underdog to steal the spotlight, as the following unforgettable campaigns prove…
GettySouth Korea | 2002 | Semi-finals
Guus Hiddink carried South Korea to the semi-finals of the 2002 World Cup when they co-hosted the tournament with Japan.
South Korea’s progression to the semi-final was aided by some dubious refereeing decisions as disallowed goals and dodgy red cards maintained their momentum before they were beaten 1-0 by Germany in the last four.
AdvertisementGetty ImagesUruguay | 2010 | Semi-finals
Uruguay reached the semi-finals in 2010 in controversial fashion. They made it through a relatively easy group containing Mexico, South Africa and a France team that was falling apart before beating South Korea in the second round.
In the quarter-finals they faced Ghana and, with the score 1-1 in the final moments of extra-time, Luis Suarez was sent off after handling a goalbound shot, with Asamoah Gyan missing the resulting penalty.
Uruguay made the most of their good fortune to win the shoot-out before losing 3-2 to Netherlands in the semi-finals.
GettySweden | 1994 | Semi-finals
Sweden had a strong team heading into the 1994 World Cup with players such as Tomas Brolin and Henrik Larsson in the squad.
Many expected Sweden to perform well but nobody could have predicted them to reach the semi-finals, where they were only 10 minutes away from extra time when Romario struck for Brazil to settle the tie.
Getty Cameroon | 1990 | Quarter-finals
Cameroon became the first African team to reach the quarter-finals in 1990 after illuminating the tournament in Italy.
From stunning holders Argentina in the opening game of the tournament, despite having two men sent off, to Roger Milla’s goals and corner-flag dancing, Cameroon were the story of the World Cup.
They were also less than 10 minutes away from reaching the semi-finals, only for a brace of questionable penalties converted by Gary Lineker helping England through following a thrilling 3-2 win.