Ranking the Top Five Tactical Comebacks in the Premier League

The Premier League is widely regarded as the greatest domestic soccer league on the planet, boasting some of the richest and most prestigious teams and players. 

Shining in such a competitive league is challenging, especially for new head coaches coming in from other countries. While the players often have their names in the headlines, a head coach’s tactical tweaks can make all the difference between victory and defeat.

Below is our rundown of the five most thrilling tactical comebacks in Premier League history. These moments brought unbridled joy to the supporters of the winning clubs while also elevating the coaches into superstardom.

1. Chelsea 3 Manchester United 3 — February 2012

When a team loses 3-0 away from home, it may be in a defeatist frame of mind. Listening to a packed stadium of fans cheering on their team, who are winning, can make any visiting side feel as though it is not their day. 

Rather than giving up in February 2012 when they took on Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, Manchester United adjusted their tactics and roared back into the game. Despite being 3-0 down, United bought on an extra attacker and found themselves level before the final whistle. Goals from creative star Wayne Rooney and striker Javier Hernandez helped them claim a draw. It’s turnarounds like these that impact those interested in the EPL sportsbook.

2. Newcastle United 4 Arsenal 4 — February 2011

Even more impressive than coming back from 3-0 down is to achieve a draw despite trailing 4-0 at the break. Newcastle United managed such a feat against Arsenal in February 2011, as they earned a valuable Premier League point through a stunning Cheik Tiote equalizer.

Arsenal had enjoyed a dream start in the game, finding themselves 3-0 up within ten minutes. Rather than capitulating, Newcastle focused on keeping it tight at the back and not being behind by too many more goals at halftime. 

As they returned from the halftime break, Newcastle upped the tempo and tweaked their formation to constantly attack Arsenal. Their bravery earned them a share of the spoils.

3. Bournemouth 4 Liverpool 3 — December 2016

An absorbing and entertaining game from the first to last whistle, Bournemouth vs. Liverpool in December 2016 was a night to remember for the home supporters.

Bournemouth did not give up despite being 2-0 down at halftime and 3-1 down with 15 minutes to go in the game. Rather than accepting their fate and moving on to the next game, they sealed a historic win over one of the biggest teams in the country.

4. Manchester City 3 QPR 2 — May 2012

Arguably, the most decisive tactical adjustment in Premier League history belongs to then-Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini in May 2012. His team was trailing Queens Park Rangers by a 2-1 scoreline on the final day of the season, with rivals Manchester United winning at Sunderland simultaneously.

While United went on to win their game, City was unwilling to let their city rivals win the league again. Mancini rolled the dice, threw on all his major strikers, and came up trumps. City equalized through Edin Dzeko and scored the winning goal a minute later, thanks to Sergio Aguero.

City won the game in the last moments while lifting the league title from under the nose of United’s legendary boss, Sir Alex Ferguson.

5. Manchester City 2 Manchester United 3 — April 2018

Manchester United could not win the war against Manchester City in the 2017/2018 season, as they had to settle for second place in the Premier League. However, then-manager Jose Mourinho did land an impressive punch against his opposite number Pep Guardiola at City.

Mourinho and United were stunned in this game, as they were 2-0 down at half-time and staring down the barrel of City clinching the Premier League title on that day. Instead of watching their rivals celebrate in front of them, United battled back to win the game 3-2.

Mourinho’s formation tweak that pushed Paul Pogba further forward was enough to get his team the upper hand in the tactical battle.

Unearthing The Next Tactical Genius

Watching a team dismantle another through tactical superiority can be as satisfying, if not more, than seeing a player score a stunning individual goal. While great solo goals are so fun to see in the moment, they cannot sustain a team over a whole season.

The teams that have the best coaches are the ones that ultimately find the most success in the long term. By achieving tactical superiority over opponents or having the nous to make changes when losing, coaches can ensure their side is in the best position to have a successful season.

As we look back on the most dramatic comebacks sparked by tactical adjustments from coaches, we eagerly await the next tactical genius who may take the Premier League by storm.