Top 10 best football matches of 2023: Ranked

Published at :January 1, 2024 at 5:37 PM

Modified at :January 13, 2024 at 11:10 AM

The 2023 Football Chronicles

As the curtain fell on the first half of the 2023 football season, fans around the world were left breathless by an array of mesmerizing matches that showcased the true beauty of the sport. From nail-biting domestic league encounters to jaw-dropping Champions League clashes, the year had it all. Here are the top 10 best football matches of 2023, the heart-stopping moments, legendary performances, and the sheer drama that left an indelible mark on the footballing landscape.

10. Aston Villa 2-4 Arsenal (Premier League 2022-23; 18 February 2023)

Arsenal secured a thrilling 4-2 victory over Aston Villa, returning to the top of the Premier League 2022-23 table. Ollie Watkins and Philippe Coutinho gave Villa a lead, but Arsenal fought back with goals from Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard. In a dramatic end to the game, Jorginho’s long-range effort deflected off Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, and Gabriel Martinelli scored a fourth for Arsenal.

This match showcased the resilience of Arsenal and the unpredictability of the Premier League. The late goals and the back-and-forth nature of the game added to the drama, making it a memorable fixture in the 2023 season. Arsenal’s ability to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat demonstrated their title credentials and set the stage for a thrilling campaign ahead.

9. Liverpool 2-5 Real Madrid (UEFA Champions League 2022-23; 22 February 2023)

In a blockbuster last-16 UCL 2022-23 clash, Liverpool and Real Madrid met at Anfield in a repeat of the 2021-22 Champions League final. Liverpool started strong, going two goals up, but Real Madrid rallied impressively, leveling the scores at halftime. The brilliance of Karim Benzema in the second half propelled Real Madrid to a 5-2 victory, handing Liverpool a humiliating defeat in their own backyard.

The match showcased the unpredictability of knockout football and the ability of top teams to turn the tide even in challenging circumstances. Real Madrid’s clinical performance highlighted their pedigree in European competitions, setting the stage for a deep run in the Champions League.

8. Arsenal 3-3 Southampton (Premier League 2022-23; 22 April 2023)

In a rollercoaster encounter, Arsenal faced Southampton with their lead at the top of the Premier League under threat. Despite facing a two-goal deficit, Arsenal fought back with late strikes from Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard to salvage a point in a thrilling 3-3 draw. The result highlighted the unpredictability of the Premier League, where even the league leaders could face challenges from lower-ranked opponents.

The match showcased the resilience of both teams and the competitive nature of English football. For Arsenal, it was a wake-up call, reminding them that every point matters in the race for the title. Southampton, despite their position in the table, proved that they could challenge the best on any given day.

7. FC Cologne 1-2 Bayern Munich (Bundesliga 2022-23; 27 May 2023)

The Bundesliga title race reached a climax in a dramatic final-day showdown between FC Cologne and Bayern Munich. With rivals Borussia Dortmund in contention, Bayern needed a win to secure their 11th consecutive Bundesliga title. Jamal Musiala’s 89th-minute goal sealed a 2-1 victory, snatching the trophy from Dortmund’s grasp.

The nail-biting nature of this title decider epitomized the competitiveness of the Bundesliga, and Bayern Munich’s ability to clinch the title in the dying moments showcased their championship mentality. This match will be remembered as a defining moment in the history of German football, marking the continuation of Bayern Munich’s domestic dominance.

6. Manchester City 4-1 Arsenal (Premier League 2022-23; 27 April 2023)

Dubbed as a winner-takes-all title decider, the clash between Manchester City and Arsenal showcased the gulf between the two sides. Kevin De Bruyne‘s early opener set the tone for the dominant Citizens, and Erling Haaland‘s late goal sealed a convincing 4-1 victory. The result highlighted the disparity in quality and solidified City’s march towards a third consecutive Premier League title.

For Arsenal, the match served as a reality check, emphasizing the work ahead for Mikel Arteta’s youthful squad. The performance of City, worthy of champions, left an indelible mark on the 2023 season, underlining their supremacy in English football.

5. Liverpool 4-3 Tottenham (Premier League 2022-23; 30 April 2023)

Liverpool‘s clash with Tottenham was a rollercoaster of emotions, with top-four hopes on the line. Liverpool raced into a three-goal lead within 15 minutes, only for Spurs to mount an impressive comeback, reducing the arrears to 3-2. Former Everton striker Richarlison, still seeking his first league goal in a Tottenham shirt, came off the bench to net a dramatic equalizer in the 93rd minute. However, a calamitous mistake from Lucas Moura straight from kick-off allowed Diogo Jota to snatch a dramatic last-gasp winner for Liverpool, leaving Tottenham and their fans to reflect on another unfortunate moment in the club’s recent history.

This match encapsulated the unpredictability of the Premier League, with its twists and turns keeping fans on the edge of their seats. Liverpool’s resilience and Tottenham’s never-say-die spirit turned this fixture into a classic, leaving an enduring memory for fans of both teams.

4. Barcelona 2-1 Real Madrid (LaLiga 2022-23; 20 March 2023)

El Clasico encounters are always highly anticipated, and the clash between Barcelona and Real Madrid in the 2023 season lived up to the hype. With Barça holding a healthy lead in La Liga, Real Madrid aimed to revive the title race. The visitors took an early lead, but Sergi Roberto’s equalizer just before halftime set the stage for a thrilling second half. As the match seemed destined for a 1-1 draw, Franck Kessie, in the second minute of stoppage time, secured a crucial 2-1 victory for Barcelona, handing them three crucial points against their arch-rivals.

This El Clasico was a rollercoaster of emotions, showcasing the intensity and unpredictability that define Spanish football’s most iconic fixture. Barcelona’s late winner not only had significant implications for the title race but added another chapter to the storied history of this fierce rivalry.

3. Manchester City 4-0 Real Madrid (UEFA Champions League 2022-23; 18 May 2023)

In a redemption story for Manchester City, they faced Real Madrid, the team that had knocked them out of the Champions League the previous year. The 4-0 triumph was a testament to City’s resilience and determination. Bernardo Silva stole the show with a first-half brace, and late goals from Manuel Akanji and Julian Alvarez sealed the deal. This ruthless performance not only exorcised the ghosts of the past but propelled Manchester City to their second consecutive Champions League final.

The match against Real Madrid wasn’t just a victory; it was a demonstration of Pep Guardiola’s tactical brilliance and the individual brilliance of City’s players. The win paved the way for Manchester City’s historic Champions League triumph, as they went on to secure a 1-0 victory against Inter Milan in the final, etching their name in European football history.

2. Barcelona 2-2 Manchester United (Europa League 2022-23; 16 February 2023)

In a clash of Champions League royalties, Barcelona and Manchester United squared off in a European football classic that ended in a thrilling 2-2 draw at the Camp Nou during the Round of 32 in the Europa League. After a goalless first half, the game exploded into life with Marcos Alonso giving the hosts the lead. However, Marcus Rashford‘s brilliance saw him score and set up another, giving United the advantage. The drama unfolded further as Raphinha’s cross found the far post, leveling the score for the third and final time in the game.

The Barcelona vs. Manchester United encounter showcased the unpredictable nature of knockout football and the sheer skill on display from both sides.

1. Liverpool 7-0 Manchester United (Premier League 2022-23; 5 March 2023)

The standout match of the year undoubtedly belongs to Liverpool’s sensational 7-0 drubbing of Manchester United at Anfield. Erik ten Hag’s side entered the contest with high hopes, but what followed was an absolute masterclass from Liverpool. The Reds, in scintillating form, delivered a devastating second-half display, netting six goals, including a historic brace from Mohamed Salah, who solidified his status as Liverpool’s all-time Premier League top scorer. Roberto Firmino‘s late strike completed the unforgettable scoreline, marking one of the most remarkable victories in the competition’s 31-year history.

This match wasn’t just about the goals; it was a statement of dominance from Liverpool, showcasing their attacking prowess and leaving Manchester United in shambles. The performance resonated throughout the footballing world, setting the tone for Liverpool’s title aspirations and raising questions about the direction of Manchester United’s season under Erik ten Hag.

The first half of the 2023 football season treated fans to a spectacular array of matches, each with its own unique storyline and moments of brilliance. From historic victories to dramatic title deciders, the top 10 matches of the year captured the essence of football – its unpredictability, emotion, and sheer entertainment. As we look forward to the remainder of the season, these matches serve as a reminder of why we love the beautiful game, with its ability to deliver unforgettable moments that will be etched in the annals of football history.

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