Could eight Tribals defeat Graf Spee?

Would a flotilla of eight Tribal-class destroyers have been enough to sink Graf Spee?

Probably: the Tribals' speed, 32 ready torpedoes, smoke, and multi-axis attacks would likely overwhelm her, though at a cost.

The answer counts the practical problem for the German ship: numerous fast destroyers, a large torpedo salvo, smoke, and attacks from multiple bearings. Graf Spee's roughly 28.5-knot speed would not let her disengage from Tribals capable of about 36 knots. Her larger guns would be formidable, but the scenario is judged likely to end with her sunk after inflicting losses. It is an example of how numbers and tactical geometry can offset gun calibre.