UEFA 2024/25 Surprise Packages: Underdogs Making Headlines
Discover the most surprising teams in this year’s UEFA Champions League, Europa League, and Conference League. Explore how they defied expectations and shook the European football landscape.
Surprise Packages in This Year’s UEFA Tournaments
European football is never short of drama. Every year, the UEFA competitions—Champions League, Europa League, and Conference League—unleash unexpected stories that defy predictions and shake the balance of power. The 2024/25 season is no different. From giant-killings to tactical masterclasses, a handful of underdog teams have risen as surprise packages, forcing the Vpower world to take notice.
These clubs aren’t just enjoying lucky streaks—they’re demonstrating cohesive tactics, emerging talents, and fearless ambition. Let’s dive into the teams that have made headlines by defying the odds in Europe this season.
1. Real Sociedad – Champions League
Why They’re a Surprise:
While Real Sociedad has been solid domestically, few expected them to top their Champions League group ahead of bigger names. Their consistency, organization, and youth-driven approach have stunned opponents.
Key Factors:
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Manager Imanol Alguacil’s tactical clarity
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Mikel Merino and Takefusa Kubo as technical leaders
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Compact 4-3-3 with positional discipline
Notable Result:
A 2-0 win over Arsenal at the Reale Arena sent a strong message to Europe.
2. Union Saint-Gilloise – Europa League
Why They’re a Surprise:
The Belgian side has become a giant-killer in the Europa League, defeating more experienced squads with a fearless, attacking mindset.
Key Factors:
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High pressing and direct play
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A collective mentality and unity on the field
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Key player: Cameron Puertas, orchestrating midfield
Notable Result:
Victory over Lazio in the group stages shook up the predictions.
3. Fenerbahçe – Europa Conference League
Why They’re a Surprise:
Though well-known regionally, few pegged Fenerbahçe as a team that could dominate a European competition. With attacking flair and a loud home advantage, they’ve become a formidable force.
Key Factors:
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Enner Valencia’s scoring form
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Fluid transitions and compact defense
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Home atmosphere in Istanbul
Notable Result:
A 3-1 away win at Fiorentina made them early favorites to go deep.
4. Stade de Reims – Europa League
Why They’re a Surprise:
The French club, not known for European pedigree, has emerged as a tactically sharp unit. Their youth and energy have caught the eye across Europe.
Key Factors:
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Tactical flexibility under manager Will Still
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Youth-powered squad with few big names
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Emphasis on aggressive pressing and short build-up
Notable Result:
Drawing away at Inter Milan and then beating them at home.
5. Bodo/Glimt – Europa Conference League
Why They’re a Surprise:
Bodo/Glimt continues to punch above their weight in Europe. Their success proves that strong club culture and tactical identity matter more than budget.
Key Factors:
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Attack-minded 4-3-3
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Scandinavian work ethic and discipline
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Developing local talent
Notable Result:
A high-scoring draw with Aston Villa showcased their threat level.
6. Sporting Braga – Champions League
Why They’re a Surprise:
Braga usually plays in the shadows of Porto, Benfica, and Sporting CP—but this year, they’ve stepped up, holding their own in a tough Champions League group.
Key Factors:
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Star performances from Ricardo Horta
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Confident ball progression from defense
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Clever set-piece routines
Notable Result:
Snatching a draw against Bayern Munich raised eyebrows.
7. Molde FK – Europa Conference League
Why They’re a Surprise:
The Norwegian club has used their tactical awareness and team cohesion to secure big wins over better-funded sides.
Key Factors:
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Structured pressing and organized blocks
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Counterattacking efficiency
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Unity in approach and belief in their system
Notable Result:
Eliminating Basel in the group stage was a landmark moment.
How These Underdogs Are Changing the European Narrative
In past years, UEFA competitions were dominated by the same elite clubs. However, this season shows how:
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Tactical identity trumps big spending
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Home-field advantage still matters
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Smaller clubs are developing elite-level coaching and scouting systems
It’s no longer just about legacy or budget. The league you come from matters less than the philosophy you bring onto the pitch.
Common Traits Among Surprise Packages
Despite coming from different countries and leagues, these teams share several similarities:
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Tactical Cohesion | Every player knows their role in the system |
| Team Spirit | Collective performance over individual brilliance |
| Adaptability | Ability to change tactics mid-game or between fixtures |
| Emerging Talents | Young players stepping up in big matches |
| Smart Scouting | Unearthing hidden gems and developing them |
These clubs offer a blueprint for teams outside the traditional elite: with proper planning, Europe is not out of reach.
Why Fans Love a Surprise Story
Every football fan secretly roots for a Cinderella run. The thrill of the unexpected, the humble team standing toe-to-toe with giants—these narratives fuel our love for the sport.
The success of surprise packages also rejuvenates the importance of national leagues. It shows that even less-heralded clubs and systems can compete in Europe’s toughest competitions.
Final Thoughts
The UEFA tournaments in 2024/25 are a celebration of unpredictability. The rise of underdogs adds color and depth to the competition, reminding us that in football, anything can happen.
As we look ahead to the knockout rounds, expect more twists. These surprise packages may not just be content with participation—they are aiming for glory.
Support Every League, Every Dream
Whether your team comes from a top-five league or a smaller nation, your passion fuels the game. Celebrate the achievements of these underdogs and show your love for the clubs that dare to dream.
Support the stories. Support the competition. Support the league.