The Most Thrilling Football Matches of the Decade
Choosing the most thrilling football matches of the decade is a daunting task, but here are the top five matches that stood out for their intensity and drama. Whether it’s a spectacular comeback or a dazzling display of football, these matches will captivate any football enthusiast.
The Top Five Matches
Barcelona vs Paris Saint-Germain 6–5 2016/17 UEFA Champions League
This breathtaking aggregate match with PSG shocking the world by winning the first leg 4–0 with Edinson Cavani and Angel Di Maria performing at their best, and Barcelona’s sensational comeback. The fearsome MSN striker line-up made a daring return to form, delivering a stunning finish that will be remembered for years to come. Despite the long road PSG traveled, the Catalan giants managed to nullify the deficit through an electric displays of football led by Lionel Messi, Neymar, and Luis Suarez.
Barcelona vs Real Madrid 3–2 2016/17 La Liga
The most exciting La Liga match of the decade saw the MSN trio of Messi, Suárez, and Neymar go head-to-head with Real Madrid’s prime players. With key players such as Marcelo, Toni Kroos, Cristiano Ronaldo, James Rodriguez, and Thibaut Courtois, it was a spectacle of football that both teams played at their absolute best. The game was filled with drama, from Real Madrid’s early lead to Barcelona’s comeback, making it one of the most thrilling matches in recent memory.
Bayern Munich vs Juventus 6–4 2015/16 UEFA Champions League
One of the best Champions League ties saw Guardiola’s Bayern Munich and prime Juventus go head-to-head. Featuring a breathtaking array of top-class players such as Robert Lewandowski, Paulo Dybala, Arjen Robben, and Manuel Neuer, the match was a high-octane affair. After a relentless 4–4 draw in the first leg, the match went into extra time, keeping fans on the edge of their seats until the final whistle.
Manchester City vs Queens Park Rangers 3–2 2013/14 Premier League
The most exciting Premier League match of the decade, decider for the title. Queens Park Rangers shocked the world by going two goals up, then Manchester City pulled one back before scoring two goals in extra time to win the title. Sergio Agüero's stunning penalty in extra time made this one of the match of the decade. The story of Manchester City’s fightback and Agüero's composure under pressure make this match unforgettable.
Real Madrid vs Bayern Munich 2–2 5–4 pens 2011/12 UEFA Champions League
This match was an absolute thriller, with Jose Mourinho’s Real Madrid eventually prevailing against Jupp Heynckes' Bayern. Featuring an array of world-class players including Mesut ?zil, Cristiano Ronaldo, Philipp Lahm, and Arjen Robben, both teams played at their peak. Bayern won the first leg 2-1, but Real Madrid came storming back in the second leg, culminating in a tightly contested match that went to penalties, with Bayern emerging victorious.
Additional Matches Worth Mentioning
There have been many thrilling matches over the past decade, and here are a few more that made my list in no particular order:
Barcelona vs Manchester United 2011 Champions League final
This match was the high point of Pep Guardiola's “monster.” Messi was at the peak of his powers, and the rest of the MSN trio were in fine form. The match felt like a methodical beatdown of a great Alex Ferguson side, and it was a testament to Manchester United’s dominance at the time.
Portugal vs Sweden 2013
A Cristiano Ronaldo masterclass, the match still gives me goosebumps every time I re-watch it. His individual brilliance and clinical finishing were truly breathtaking.
Barcelona vs Paris Saint-Germain 6–1
The single greatest comeback I have ever watched in this decade. Neymar's brilliance, Sergi Roberto's finish, and Messi and Suarez providing stellar support made it a superb team performance.
Spain vs Netherlands 2010 World Cup final
A classic showdown ended with a memorable goal from Andrés Iniesta in the dying minutes. The game showcased a masterclass of tiki-taka football and remains one of the most talked-about matches in modern football history.
Real Madrid vs Atlético Madrid 2014 Champions League final
This match saw Sergio Ramos bringing Real Madrid back into the match, and Angel Di María's brilliance ensuring a thumping comeback. It was a compelling finish that kept fans guessing until the very end.
Belgium vs Brazil World Cup 2018
My personal favorite, Kevin De Bruyne was lethal as a false nine, Brazil played excellently, and both sides made the keepers work. Thibaut Courtois proved his mettle, and Belgium's smart strategy secured victory in this match that will be remembered for years to come.