1998 Division One Play-off Final vs Gillingham
The greatest comeback in City's history: from 2-0 down in injury time to promotion via penalties.
The 1999 Football League Second Division Play-off Final was a match between Manchester City and Gillingham, played at Wembley Stadium. It was goalless for 82 minutes, then Gillingham scored two late goals. City scored two injury-time goals (the second in the 95th minute) to make it 2-2 after extra time, and won the penalty shoot-out 3-1. The scorers for City were Kevin Horlock and Paul Dickov.
Quick Facts
- Date
- May 25, 1998
- Venue
- Wembley Stadium, London
- Competition
- Football League First Division Play-off Final
- Result
- Manchester City 2-0 Gillingham (after extra time)
- Key scorers
- Nicky Weaver, Shaun Goater
Lore & Background
This match marked the lowest ever league finish in Manchester City's history, but the dramatic comeback—conceding two goals in the last ten minutes of normal time, then scoring two in injury time and winning on penalties—became one of the proudest moments of the club's history. The victory ensured City's immediate return to Division One after their first season in the third tier.
Reader's Guide
The match is remembered for its incredible turnaround. City wore a bright yellow and navy blue striped away kit, which took on special significance for fans after this game. The kit was later brought back by Puma for the 2024–25 away kit to commemorate 25 years since the victory.
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