Cypriot Super Cup
The Cypriot Super Cup is the annual curtain-raiser to the football season on the Mediterranean island, pitting the champions of the Cypriot First Division against the Cypriot Cup winners. Far from a mere exhibition, it's a high-stakes clash where giants like APOEL, Omonia, and AEK battle for early-season bragging rights and silverware.
History and foundation
The competition traces its roots to the 1960s but solidified in 1975. The inaugural official clash saw Omonia, the league champs, face APOEL, the cup holders. Over decades, it's hosted epics: APOEL's 5-1 thrashing of Nea Salamis in 1984, Omonia's seven straight wins in the 1990s. A quirky note — the 2011 edition was scrapped when AEK Larnaca withdrew over finances. APOEL leads with 15 triumphs, Omonia close with 14. Recent years see APOEL and AEK vying for supremacy.
Tournament format
It's a straightforward single-leg affair, typically on neutral ground or one team's home turf. If the same club wins league and cup, the runner-up steps in. Played in August over 90 minutes, ties go to penalties. This format keeps the intensity razor-sharp from kickoff.
Interesting facts
Average goals hover at 2.8 per match, spiking to 4-5 in heated derbies. Top scorers include Kostas Hatzis (4 for APOEL) and Rafael (3 for AEK). Stars like Georgian Giorgos Donis, Cypriot sharpshooter Michalis Potis, and APOEL's Brazilian Diego Souza lit up proceedings. Players such as Pablo Gabriel and Facundo Pirez brought flair, while coach Ivan Jovanovic masterminded multiple APOEL wins. These games showcase Cyprus' top talents.