Bulgarian Supercup
The Bulgarian Supercup is the annual curtain-raiser to the Bulgarian football season, pitting the champions of the First League from the previous year against the Bulgarian Cup winners. If one team claims both titles, the league runners-up step in. This high-stakes clash generates buzz and highlights early-season form.
History and foundation
Launched in 1989 with CSKA Sofia thrashing Levski 4-0, the Supercup has seen 37 editions, the latest won by Ludogorets in 2023. Ludogorets leads with 11 victories, followed by Levski's 7. Notable skips: 1999 due to logistics, 2020 amid COVID-19. Memorable moments include Levski's 2010 penalty shootout win over Litex and CSKA Sofia's 3-0 rout of Beroe in 2016.
Tournament format
A single-match affair on neutral ground, typically late July, rotating venues like Sofia, Varna, and Plovdiv. Ties after 90 minutes plus extra time go to penalties. No groups or playoffs—just a straight showdown.
Interesting facts
Average goals per match hover at 2.8, with standouts like Ludogorets' 6-1 demolition of CSKA in 2014. Top scorers: Kiril Despodov (3 goals), Emilio Garcia, Yakovic. Stars who've shone: Dimitar Berbatov in his Levski days, Hristo Yanev for Ludogorets, Stanislav Angelov at CSKA. Recent flair from Quincy Promes and Vinicius adds edge.