The year 2025 in football was nothing short of a rollercoaster. From breathtaking comebacks to historic triumphs, heartbreaks, and personal milestones, fans across the globe were treated to unforgettable moments on the pitch.
Here’s a look back at the top footballing stories of the year.
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After years of near misses, Paris Saint-Germain finally lifted the UEFA Champions League trophy under Luis Enrique. Their dominant 5-0 victory over Inter Milan was a masterclass in attacking football. Stars like Vitinha and Ousmane Dembele dazzled, turning PSG into the undisputed leaders of European club football. Enrique’s tactical brilliance earned him the Ligue 1 Manager of the Year and Men’s Johan Cruyff Trophy honours.
Inter Milan snatches victory away from Barcelona
The Champions League semi-final second leg at the San Siro delivered one of the most dramatic nights in recent football history. Trailing on aggregate, Inter Milan scored a last-minute equalizer to make it 6-6, then sealed their place in the final with David Frattesi’s decisive goal in the 99th minute of extra time. Barcelona’s hopes were dashed in heartbreaking fashion, echoing the drama of their 2017 comeback against PSG.
Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal lift second UEFA Nations League title
Cristiano Ronaldo added yet another international trophy to his legendary career. Portugal defeated reigning European champions Spain 5-3 on penalties after a 2-2 draw. Ronaldo also scored during the match, highlighting Portugal’s squad depth and their growing reputation as contenders for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Chelsea win first edition of the new FIFA Club World Cup
The revamped FIFA Club World Cup, hosted in the United States ahead of the 2026 World Cup, saw 32 teams competing for global supremacy. Chelsea stunned PSG with a 3-0 final victory, thanks to Enzo Maresca’s tactical genius. While injuries and inconsistency challenged the Blues in the following season, this triumph marked a historic milestone in the club’s history.
Liverpool break Premier League transfer record for Alexander Isak
Liverpool enjoyed a title-winning season under Arne Slot and made waves in the transfer market by signing Swedish striker Alexander Isak from Newcastle United for a record £130 million. This blockbuster deal, including add-ons, sent a clear message about Liverpool’s ambitions for domestic and European dominance.
A comeback story like no other – Ousmane Dembele wins Ballon d’Or 2025
Ousmane Dembele’s 2025 season was one for the ages. After years of injuries that threatened his career, the French forward staged a sensational comeback, leading PSG to Ligue 1, the French Super Cup, and the Champions League. His Ballon d’Or and The Best FIFA Men’s Player wins were a fitting reward for resilience, talent, and sheer determination.
Tragedy strikes – Diogo Jota’s untimely death
Football was shaken by the tragic passing of Portugal and Liverpool forward Diogo Jota in a car accident in Spain, alongside his brother Andre Silva. Jota had enjoyed a stellar season, winning both the Premier League with Liverpool and the UEFA Nations League with Portugal. His death left fans and the football community in deep mourning.
Manchester United’s Europa League drama at Old Trafford
Manchester United demonstrated their trademark resilience with a thrilling Europa League comeback against Lyon. Trailing 4-2 on aggregate in extra time, United scored twice in stoppage time thanks to Kobbie Mainoo and Harry Maguire, sending Old Trafford into ecstasy. The joy was short-lived, however, as Tottenham Hotspur edged them 1-0 in the final.
Tottenham’s first major trophy
Tottenham Hotspur finally celebrated a historic milestone by winning their first major trophy since 2008: the 2025 Europa League. Brennan Johnson’s first-half goal proved decisive, with Micky Van de Ven’s heroic goal-line save preserving the lead. Heung-Min Son lifted his first trophy with Spurs, cementing his status as a club legend.
Messi’s ‘Last Dance’ on Argentine Soil
Lionel Messi bid a poignant farewell to his home fans, playing what is expected to be his final international match on Argentine soil. He took his final bow at the iconic La Bombonera in Buenos Aires, leaving the pitch in tears. Although this was his last competitive game at home, it was just the beginning of his final goal: leading Argentina to defend their title at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Ancelotti era begins for Brazil
After months of intense speculation, Carlo Ancelotti finally departed Real Madrid to take the reins of Brazil. His appointment as the first high-profile foreign manager in the history of the Selecao sent shockwaves through the football world. As the tactical mastermind settles into the dugout, his primary objective is clear: guiding Brazil back to the “Hexa” (sixth title) at the upcoming World Cup.
A fairytale rise – Curacao secures World Cup berth
In one of the most incredible underdog stories in football history, Curacao — a tiny Caribbean island with a population of just around 156,000 — stunned the world by qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Defying all odds, they navigated the North American qualifiers by toppling regional heavyweight Jamaica to secure their spot on the grandest stage.