Biggest Upsets in the 2025 Champions League Qualifiers
The 2025 UEFA Champions League qualifiers have delivered drama, heartbreak, and stunning upsets that nobody saw coming. While European giants often cruise through the early rounds, this year’s qualifiers proved that the underdogs are not just here to participate—they’re here to shock the world. Let’s dive into the biggest upsets of the qualifying rounds that are already shaping the narrative of this Champions League season.
Ferencvaros Knocks Out Galatasaray in a Shock Second-Round Exit
One of the earliest shocks of the qualifiers came when Hungarian side Ferencvaros eliminated Turkish giants Galatasaray in the second round. After a 1-1 draw in Budapest, the Turkish club was expected to seal the deal at home. Instead, Ferencvaros stunned the Istanbul crowd with a 2-0 win, capitalizing on defensive errors and showing clinical finishing.
The result has sparked heavy criticism of Galatasaray’s preseason planning and raised questions about the direction of the club.
Slovan Bratislava Sends Rangers Crashing Out
Scottish Premiership side Rangers suffered a surprise exit at the hands of Slovan Bratislava. Despite entering as strong favorites and boasting European pedigree, Rangers looked out of rhythm throughout the tie. A 1-0 away loss followed by a 2-2 draw at Ibrox sent shockwaves through Scottish football.
Slovan’s disciplined defense and counter-attacking strategy frustrated Rangers, who were heavily backed to make the group stages this year.
Dinamo Tbilisi Upsets Red Star Belgrade in a Stunning Third-Round Clash
Georgian champions Dinamo Tbilisi delivered one of the most astonishing results of the qualifiers by eliminating Red Star Belgrade. The Serbian club, former European Cup winners, were expected to coast through this stage. Instead, Dinamo Tbilisi showcased tactical brilliance and composure under pressure.
A last-minute goal in the second leg turned the tie on its head and sent the home crowd into a frenzy. This upset has already been labeled one of the biggest in recent qualifying history.
FC Astana Eliminates Copenhagen in Extra Time Thriller
Kazakhstan’s FC Astana has become a familiar name in Europe over the past decade, but few expected them to knock out Danish side Copenhagen, a regular in the group stages. After a 0-0 draw in the first leg, Astana pulled off a 3-2 win after extra time in Denmark.
The match was packed with drama, including a red card, a missed penalty, and a 119th-minute winner. Copenhagen’s early exit has raised serious questions about their squad depth and European ambitions.
Sheriff Tiraspol Does It Again – Shocks Olympiacos
Just when it seemed Sheriff Tiraspol’s 2021 heroics were a one-time fairytale, the Moldovan side stunned Olympiacos to book their place in the playoff round. Sheriff were aggressive from the start, pressing high and denying the Greek side any rhythm.
With a 2-1 away win followed by a gritty 1-1 draw at home, Sheriff proved they’re more than just a one-season wonder. Olympiacos’ failure to adapt tactically over the two legs cost them dearly.
Why These Upsets Matter
These upsets are more than just headlines—they speak to the changing dynamics of European Football Streams. Smaller clubs are better prepared, better funded, and tactically sharper than ever before. The gap between traditional powerhouses and underdogs is narrowing.
Clubs like Ferencváros, Dinamo Tbilisi, and Sheriff Tiraspol are building sustainable models that challenge the dominance of larger leagues. Their success also brings fresh narratives and diversity to the Champions League group stages.
What’s Next in the Champions League Playoff Round?
With several big names already out, the playoff round promises even more surprises. Eyes will now be on clubs like Slovan Bratislava and FC Astana to see if they can ride the momentum and make it to the group stage.
Meanwhile, traditional powers left in the competition must be on high alert—2025 is shaping up to be the most unpredictable qualifying campaign in recent memory.
