What Is Last Man Standing?
Published on May 3, 2025 (Last updated: June 15, 2025)
Last Man Standing — or LMS — is football prediction at its purest. No squad management, no captains, no bonus points. Just one simple rule: pick one team to win each round.
Sounds easy? It's not.
The catch is simple but cruel: once you’ve picked a team, you can’t pick them again. You might back Arsenal in the opener — they’re flying, they’re at home, it’s a safe bet. But come Week 6, you’ll wish you still had them in your locker.
One wrong call, one late equaliser, and you’re out. Game over.
Where It All Started
LMS began as a pub game. A few mates, a fiver in the pot, and scribbled picks on the back of a napkin. From there it grew — into WhatsApp leagues, office sweepstakes, and club fundraisers. The game worked because it was simple, dramatic, and easy to get hooked on.
Over time, it’s evolved — but the core idea hasn’t changed: last person standing wins.
Why It Works
It’s part prediction, part psychology. You need to read the form, trust your instincts, and know when to go bold. Unlike fantasy football, there's no faffing about with line-ups. One pick, one outcome: win and survive.
It’s also brilliantly unforgiving. One wrong move and you're watching from the sidelines. That pressure? That’s what keeps people coming back.