The 5 Greatest Comebacks in Champions League History

The biggest club competition in the world has seen its fair share of excitement and drama. But nothing compares to the thrill of a Champions League comeback. Let's take a look at the 5 greatest comebacks in Champions League History.

5. 2013-14 Final: Real Madrid Vs Atlético Madrid

Had Real Madrid lost to Atlético Madrid in the 2013-14 Champions League Final, their era of dominance may not have started. That seemed to be the case for 93 minutes as Atletico was on the cusp of victory and its first Champions League trophy thanks to a Diego Godin header in the 36th minute.

Just when all hope was lost, Real Madrid got a corner in what was the final play of the match. Luka Modric curved the ball into the penalty box, and it was captain Sergio Ramos who gave Real Madrid a lifeline. The match went to extra time which Real Madrid dominated from the starting whistle and went on to win 4-1.

4. 2011-12 last 16: Chelsea Vs Napoli

The winners of the 2012 Champions League had a rocky start from the beginning. With new manager Roberto Di Matteo at the helm, Chelsea suffered a crushing 3-1 defeat at the Stadio San Paolo against Napoli in the quarter-finals. It all seemed done and dusted.

Members of Chelsea's old guard Didier Drogba and John Terry scored in the 29th and 47th minute to give hope to the Stamford Bridge faithful. However, when Gökhan Inler scored in the 55th minute, things started to look bad again. 20 minutes later, Frank Lampard levelled the scores and a goal from Branislav Ivanović in extra time led Chelsea through to the semi-finals. The rest is history.

3. 2003-04 Quarter Final: AC Milan Vs Deportivo de La Coruña

AC Milan was a force to be reckoned with in the mid-2000s. Paired against Deportivo de La Coruña in the quarter-finals, Milan thought they had an easy route to the semi-finals. After all, the first leg was more of a squash match as Milan won at San Siro 4 goals to 1.

But what happened in the second leg is the stuff of legend. With the home advantage and an unwavering desire to triumph, Deportivo made a resounding comeback and went on to win the game 4 - 0. This was the first time in Champions League history that a team came back from a 3 goal deficit.

2. 2018-19 Semi-Final: Liverpool Vs Barcelona

By now you should have figured out that the top 2 spots belong to Liverpool. This entry is from their most recent Champions League triumph which at one point didn't seem to be a possibility. Losing 3-0 to Barcelona at Camp Nou with Lionel Messi in sublime form meant that it was going to be a long night in Anfield.

It turned out to be a long night in Anfield indeed, but for the visitors. Divock Origi scored early but it was Georginio Wijnaldum who gave Liverpool hope by scoring two goals in two minutes. The final nail in the coffin was that iconic corner from Trent Alexander-Arnold and Origi that completed a historic comeback and sent Liverpool to the finals!

1. 2004-05 Final: Liverpool Vs Milan

Ah, yes! The Miracle of Istanbul. Who can ever forget it? Milan came into the finals as heavy favorites and looking to avenge their early exit the previous season at the hands of Deportivo. Within the first minute, legendary defender and Milan captain Paolo Maldini secured the lead for Milan. Two goals from Hernan Crespo had Milan leading the game at halftime 3-0.

But what happened in the second half was nothing short of magical. Liverpool made a dramatic comeback as Steven Gerrard, Vladimir Smicer, and Xabi Alonso scored in a 6-minute spell to even the game. Extra time went scoreless and it was off to the penalty shootout. Andriy Shevchenko was given the crucial penalty but alas, it was Liverpool's night to be. Jerzy Dudek saved the penalty and sent the travelling Liverpool fans into a frenzy.

Liverpool secured their 5th European Cup in what is considered by many as the greatest comeback in Champions League history.