Armenian Super Cup
The Armenian Super Cup is an annual football match that kicks off the season in Armenian football. It pits the champions of the previous Premier League season against the Armenian Cup winners. If one team claims both titles, the league runners-up take their spot. This high-stakes clash sets the tone for the entire campaign, drawing fans nationwide as the first silverware of the year.
History and foundation
Launched in 1992, the competition faced interruptions due to post-Soviet turmoil but stabilized from 2005. The inaugural match saw Pyunik, the league champions, face Ararat Cup winners. In 2018, a super final format was introduced involving the top three teams if distinct—champions, cup holders, and third-placed side. A standout moment: in 1997, Kotayk stunned Pyunik 4-1, one of Armenia's most memorable upsets. Pyunik leads with 12 victories, cementing their supremacy.
Tournament format
Traditionally a single neutral-venue match, often at Hanrapetutyan Stadium in Yerevan or Banavan in Kapan. Since 2018, it may expand to a mini-tournament with two or three teams playing round-robin if needed. Ties are settled by penalties after 90 minutes; overtime is rare per FFA rules. The format ensures a decisive winner swiftly.
Interesting facts
Average goals per match hover at 2.8, with peaks reaching four. Top scorers include Artur Mirzoyan (5 goals) and Gevorg Gevorgyan (4). Stars like Arasoz Elizde, whose 2020 hat-trick sealed Alashkert's win, and Pyunik legend David Manukyan (7 titles) shine bright. Current talents such as Yuri Tongunara of Noah bring flair, highlighting tactical prowess in set-pieces and counters.