3 Football Myths That Still Live in the 21st Century (And Why They’re Dead Wrong)

The 1-0 Myth That Refuses to Die

You know that old chestnut? “Juventus always play 1-0 football.” Classic. I’ve heard it from fans who’ve never watched a full match, just scrolled through highlight reels while sipping tea in their armchair. Let me hit you with cold, hard numbers: from 1993–94 to 2007–08, Juventus averaged over 65 goals per season. Yes — sixty-five. That’s not counter-attacking pragmatism; that’s offensive fireworks.

Even when Marcello Lippi was sacked mid-season after a few losses? They scored 56 goals in that same campaign. So much for defensive dogma.

When ‘Defensive’ Became Code for ‘Overrated’

Here’s the irony: people call them defensive because they won trophies with limited goals — but they didn’t aim for low scoring. In fact, their average shot count and possession percentage often outpaced rivals like Milan or Inter during those years.

Take the 2000–01 season under Ancelotti: 46 goals? Okay, lower than usual — but remember: it was also their first title without Zidane or Del Piero fully fit. Was it tactical restraint? Or just bad luck with injuries? Data says ‘injuries’ wins every time.

The Real Formula Behind Juve’s Dominance

Let’s cut through the fog: Juve weren’t about sitting back and hoping for one goal. Their strength was transition efficiency, tactical discipline, and depth — not fear of losing games by more than one.

In fact, their highest-scoring seasons came under managers most people label as ‘defensive’: Lippi (71 goals in ’97–98), Camplone (67), even Carlo Ancelotti (average of ~62). If your team scores over 60 and still gets labeled ‘anti-football,’ then maybe it’s time to stop using terms like ‘pragmatism’ as code for mediocrity.

Why Do These Myths Stick?

Because nostalgia loves simplicity. A story is easier when you can say “they just defended” instead of admitting they were better at everything — set pieces, midfield control, pressure retention.

It’s also fuelled by media tropes from the early ’90s era when journalists used terms like ‘ball control’ as if it meant passivity. But passing more isn’t passive — especially when you’re winning games by two or three.

And yes, I’m aware some fans still swear by this myth because they dislike flashy teams or want an excuse to hate big clubs. Fair enough — but let’s keep our arguments grounded in data, not tribalism.