Spain 0 – 1 Northern Ireland
Date Played – June 1982 (world cup)
In the sweltering heat of the Luis Casanova football stadium in Valencia, Northern Ireland arguably played their most incredible world cup encounter ever as they overcame all the odds of defeating the mighty hosts, Spain. In what was a hot match watched by a hostile Spanish crowd, Northern Ireland held Spain 0-0 by the end of the first half. Within two minutes of the second half, Gerry Armstrong put Northern Ireland in front, however 12 minutes later, Mal Donaghy was sent off for a challenge that would not even usually get a booking. However, with Pat Jennings in great form in the Northern Ireland goal, the Irish refused to relinquish their advantage and qualified for the next round as they finished the group off at the top of the table.