Danish Women's Cup
The Danish Women's Cup is the premier knockout competition in Danish women's football, organized by the Danish Football Association (DBU). It brings together top clubs from across the country in a thrilling battle for glory, often featuring upsets where underdogs challenge the elite from the top flight.
History and foundation
Launched in 1993, the cup has a storied history intertwined with the growth of women's football in Denmark. FC Brøndby IF leads with 14 victories, cementing its dominance. A memorable moment came in 2018 when under-the-radar Esbjerg fB triumphed over favorites Fortuna Hjørring in the final. The tournament has launched careers, with many players progressing to the national team after standout performances.
Tournament format
Employing a straight knockout format, matches from the round of 16 are single-legged affairs hosted by the draw's designated home team. The final is held at a neutral venue, typically Parken Stadium in Copenhagen. Around 48 teams participate, spanning elite and regional divisions, with the competition running parallel to the league season from August to May.
Interesting facts
Matches average 3.2 goals, higher than league games due to expansive play and high stakes. All-time top scorer Marina Nygaard netted 25 for Brøndby in the 2010s. Stars include Pernille Harder (ex-national captain, 10 cup goals), Sanne Kindsstrøm of Fortuna Hjørring, and rising star Sofie Pedersen, who scored a hat-trick in the 2023 semi-final for Brøndby.