Which football teams have won tournaments they did not qualify for? | The Knowledge

Since the turn of the millennium, several teams have won the Europa League after getting knocked out of the Champions League, showcasing the unpredictable nature of European competitions.

Galatasaray was the first to capitalize on this unique situation, winning the UEFA Cup in 2000, followed by a series of teams doing the same, including Sevilla's extraordinary two-time success.

Notably, in 2013-14, Sevilla came from an underwhelming ninth place in La Liga the previous season to eventually win the Europa League, highlighting how football fortunes can rapidly change.

The circumstances surrounding Dinamo Tbilisi's win in the 1980-81 Cup Winners' Cup reveal the nuances of tournament eligibility, as they secured their spot despite finishing below another team due to timing issues.

Read at www.theguardian.com