Which club in the English premier league made an historical come-back in the Europa league tournament?

The UEFA Europa League has been a battleground for some of Europe’s most thrilling footballing moments. While often seen as the Champions League’s younger sibling, the tournament has consistently delivered heart-stopping drama, legendary performances, and jaw-dropping comebacks. For football enthusiasts and historians alike, one question often sparks debate: which club in the English Premier League made an historical comeback in the Europa League tournament?

Among several incredible turnarounds over the years, one club stands tall, etching their name into the folklore of European football with a comeback that redefined resilience, passion, and belief.

Let’s journey through this unforgettable chapter in Europa League history and dissect the English Premier League (EPL) club that orchestrated it.

The Undeniable Drama of the Europa League

Before diving into the specific answer to which club in the English Premier League made an historical comeback in the Europa League tournament, it’s important to appreciate the context.

The Europa League is not just a secondary competition; it’s a lifeline for many clubs looking to re-establish European credibility, test young squads, or reclaim lost glory. Unlike the Champions League, it’s packed with unpredictability—making it the perfect environment for stunning comebacks.

And among all the stories told in this competition, one comeback stands head and shoulders above the rest.

The Answer: Liverpool’s Legendary Comeback Against Borussia Dortmund (2016)

When the conversation revolves around which club in the English Premier League made an historical comeback in the Europa League tournament, the resounding answer is: Liverpool Football Club.

The 2015–16 UEFA Europa League quarter-final clash between Liverpool and Borussia Dortmund is widely regarded as one of the most epic two-legged ties in modern football. What happened at Anfield on April 14, 2016, has gone down in history as one of the greatest comebacks—not just in the Europa League, but in European football altogether.

Setting the Stage: Quarter-Final Clash Between Giants

The build-up to the match was already electric. Borussia Dortmund were the tournament favorites, guided by the tactical genius of Thomas Tuchel. Meanwhile, Liverpool, under the newly appointed Jurgen Klopp—ironically the former Dortmund coach—were undergoing a transformation.

The first leg ended in a 1–1 draw in Germany, giving Liverpool a slight edge with an away goal. But what transpired in the return leg would become a footballing masterclass in determination and spirit.

The Match That Shocked Europe: Liverpool vs Borussia Dortmund, 4–3

Anfield was buzzing. The Kop was in full voice. But within 10 minutes, Dortmund were 2–0 up through goals by Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. At this point, the aggregate stood at 3–1 in favor of Dortmund. A third goal by Marco Reus in the 57th minute made it 3–1 on the night, and 4–2 on aggregate. Liverpool needed three goals in less than 33 minutes.

What followed was nothing short of miraculous:

• Philippe Coutinho brought hope with a low shot in the 66th minute.

• Mamadou Sakho added another in the 78th, sending Anfield into a frenzy.

• And finally, in the 91st minute, Dejan Lovren rose above everyone to head in the winning goal, completing a 4–3 victory (5–4 on aggregate).

This match is the definitive answer to which club in the English Premier League made an historical comeback in the Europa League tournament.

Why Liverpool’s Comeback Stands Out

1. High Stakes, High Drama

Unlike early-stage comebacks, this was a European quarter-final against the tournament favorites. The intensity of the night, the magnitude of the opponent, and the hostile scoreline made the comeback even more sensational.

2. Symbolic of Klopp’s New Era

This match symbolized the beginning of Jurgen Klopp’s legacy at Liverpool. The “never say die” mentality and passion seen that night became a defining trait of Klopp’s reign, eventually leading to Champions League and Premier League glory in the following seasons.

3. Emotional Rollercoaster for Fans

Ask any Liverpool supporter about that night, and you’ll likely hear it ranked alongside the famous Istanbul comeback of 2005. It wasn’t just a win—it was an emotional journey, encapsulating everything fans love about football.

Other Notable EPL Comebacks in Europa League History

While Liverpool’s 2016 comeback tops the list, there are other dramatic Europa League moments involving EPL clubs worth mentioning:

Chelsea vs Napoli (2012, Round of 16 – Champions League crossover)

Though technically in the Champions League, Chelsea’s comeback from 3–1 down in the first leg to win 4–1 in the second leg at Stamford Bridge helped propel them to eventually win the tournament. This showed a similar spirit EPL clubs are known for in European competitions.

Manchester United vs AS Roma (2021, Semi-Finals)

United’s 6–2 thrashing of Roma in the first leg was followed by a nervy 3–2 second-leg loss. While not a comeback in the purest sense, the first-leg explosion was a comeback within the game after going behind 2–1 early.

Arsenal vs Benfica (2021, Round of 32)

Arsenal trailed in the second leg and were facing elimination until a late winner from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang sealed the deal. It was a great example of grit and composure under pressure.

Tactical Brilliance Behind the Liverpool Comeback

Liverpool’s 2016 comeback wasn’t just about heart—it was also about strategy. Klopp’s substitutions, particularly bringing on Joe Allen and Daniel Sturridge, changed the tempo. The relentless pressing, quick transitions, and perfect utilization of the flanks broke down Dortmund’s defense in the dying minutes.

This wasn’t just luck; it was a tactical gamble that paid off brilliantly.

Emotional and Cultural Impact of the Comeback

When fans debate which club in the English Premier League made an historical comeback in the Europa League tournament, it goes beyond statistics. It’s about what that comeback meant:

• For Liverpool fans, it rekindled the spirit of famous European nights.

• For neutrals, it reinforced why the Europa League deserves more respect.

• For football romantics, it was a reminder that the game is unpredictable, thrilling, and magical.

Legacy of the 2016 Comeback

Though Liverpool fell short in the final against Sevilla, the comeback against Dortmund was arguably more memorable than the final itself. It helped define Klopp’s tenure and inspired belief in a squad still finding its identity.

In the broader context of football, this comeback became a benchmark. Whenever future comebacks are analyzed, Liverpool vs Dortmund is the match against which others are measured.

Final Thoughts: A Night That Will Never Be Forgotten

So, which club in the English Premier League made an historical comeback in the Europa League tournament? Without a shadow of a doubt, it’s Liverpool, with their electrifying performance against Borussia Dortmund in 2016.

This wasn’t just a football match—it was a story of belief, unity, and heart. The kind of night that defines football fandom and reminds us why we fall in love with the game.

As fans, we crave drama. We seek heroes. We remember moments. And Liverpool’s unforgettable comeback delivered all three in one magical evening under the Anfield lights.