San Marino’s men's national soccer team has finally shed its label as the world’s worst team after achieving what many thought was impossible—a competitive victory for the first time in 34 years. The tiny republic, with its population of about 33,000 and nested within the heart of Italy, made history on September 7, 2024, with a dramatic 1-0 win against Liechtenstein during the UEFA Nations League
This historic match was not just another game; it was the culmination of two decades of suffering for San Marino fans, whose beloved team had gone 177 competitive matches without tasting victory, becoming the butt of jokes and the epitome of underachievement on the global soccer stage. For many, Thursday marked the end of what had become known as the team's 'curse'.
The last time San Marino had won was back in 2004, when they defeated Liechtenstein 1-0 during a friendly match - but 20 years is not just a long time for any sports team; it's practically eons for fans who've invested their hopes, dreams, and heartbreaks without ever seeing their squad triumph.
Despite being ranked 210th out of 210 globally, San Marino's fans, known for their undying loyalty, were outnumbered only by their optimism. Among them, the ‘Brigata Mai 1 Gioia’—translationally known as the ‘Never Any Joy Brigade’—has been the spirited support base, rallying for their team through thick and thin, and much thinner than most would endure.
With the UEFA Nations League providing matches of more balanced caliber, anticipation around this fixture was palpable. This was the most opportune moment for the little country, their mission to excel abetted by the recent appointment of manager Roberto Cevoli, and unexpected improvements during Euro 2024 qualification, where the team started finding the net against considerably higher-ranked squads such as Denmark and Finland.
On the fateful day, the atmosphere at the Stadio Olimpico was electric, with the attendance noticeably higher than usual—fueled by kids from soccer schools showing up to support their team. Early tensions began when Liechtenstein struck the first goal, but fortune finally turned as VAR ruled it out for offside. The San Marino players seized the moment, with the exuberant crowd rooting them on.
Then, with tension boiling and expectations rising, it happened. Nicko Sensoli, just 19 years old, scored the game’s sole goal just after the half-time whistle. He put the ball past Liechtenstein’s goalkeeper Benjamin Büchel following some hesitation on the latter's part. For San Marino, it was the long-awaited moment they had cherished for years—their name etched forever alongside their long-suffering fans, who exploded with joy at the realization of their historical feat.
Even as the clock ticked down and seven minutes of injury time was announced, fans remained glued to their seats—eyes widened waiting for the final whistle. They finally got their moment to celebrate when it rang out. The players fell to their knees, overwhelmed with emotion, and the stadium PA blasted out San Marino’s victory announcement. Fields filled with tears of joy as the Brigata, who had stood through years of despair, could scarcely believe their long wait was finally over.
Cevoli, the head coach, could hardly contain his excitement. “It was the perfect evening,” he expressed postgame. “We scored and didn’t let one in—I couldn’t have asked for anything more. I’m so happy for everyone involved.” Sensoli, the match-winner anchored his elation for the team to his loved ones back home and dedicated his win to all who had stuck by the national team, recognizing the generational hope they represented.
This remarkable victory transformed the narrative around the team. The emotional weight of years of struggle has turned to elation, and maybe even the slightest hint of confidence. Yet, players and fans alike know the consequences of their newfound fortunes: expectations have now been raised, and complacency is the last thing they can afford. The excitement is all new, but with it, there also looms the pressure to avoid falling back to their old losing ways.
For the supporters, the day didn’t just bring the long-overdue respite from defeat; it marked the dawn of potential new beginnings. The prospect of rallying behind their team at home and away presents new opportunities. Following the monumental win, the Brigata might even have to reconsider their name. Maybe it won't be 'Never Any Joy' much longer.
All eyes are now turned to upcoming fixtures, including the highly anticipated rematch against Gibraltar. San Marino has every reason to be optimistic. After all, they have finally seized the reins of their fate—one goal, one thrilling moment at a time.
