Women's São Paulo State Cup
The Women's São Paulo State Cup is a prominent regional women's football tournament in São Paulo state, Brazil. It features top clubs from the region, delivering fierce competition and nurturing emerging talents. The event highlights the surging popularity of women's soccer in Brazil, with São Paulo at the forefront in organization and match quality.
History and foundation
Launched in the early 2010s amid professionalization of women's leagues, the first official edition was in 2014. São Paulo FC has dominated, securing multiple titles, including a streak from 2019–2022. A standout moment was the 2021 final where Corinthians edged Pinheiros 3:1 with a 89th-minute winner. The tournament adapted through the pandemic, resuming in 2021 with enhanced protocols.
Tournament format
The format comprises a group stage divided into zones (typically 12–16 teams), with the top two from each advancing to playoffs. Quarterfinals, semifinals, and final are single-leg knockout matches on neutral venues. The season spans 2–3 months with weekend fixtures. In 2023, 14 teams competed.
Interesting facts
Average goals per match stand at 2.8, reflecting Brazil's attacking flair. All-time top scorer is Zaca Duarte (São Paulo) with 25 goals over three seasons. Standout players include Jamilly (ex-Corinthians, Olympic bronze medalist), Arianna (Pinheiros, assist leader), and Victoria (São Paulo's rising star). Many have progressed to Brazil's national team.