Ecuador Cup
The Ecuador Cup is the premier knockout competition organized by the Ecuadorian Football Federation (FEF). It features clubs from Serie A, Primera B, and amateur sides, creating opportunities for giant-killings and thrilling upsets. Launched in 2022, it has rapidly become a cornerstone of Ecuadorian football, complementing the league season and captivating fans nationwide.
History and foundation
Introduced in 2022 to enrich the domestic calendar, the inaugural edition saw LDU Quito triumph 5-3 over Aucas in the final. Barcelona SC claimed the 2023 title with dominant performances. Notably, with up to 44 teams, it's one of South America's most inclusive cups. In 2024, Independiente del Valle reached the final but fell short, highlighting the tournament's role in nurturing young prospects.
Tournament format
A pure knockout format with single-leg ties. Lower-division teams enter in the preliminary round (1/32 finals), joined by top Serie A and B clubs later. Stages include round of 32, 16, quarterfinals, semifinals, and final. Matches are decided in 90 minutes plus stoppage time, no extra time—straight to penalties if tied. Finals draw massive crowds on neutral grounds.
Interesting facts
Average goals per match hover at 2.8, favoring attacking flair. Top scorers include Lionel Almeida (LDU, 6 goals in 2023) and Jorge Granda (Aucas, 5). Standout players: Damian Diaz's mesmerizing dribbles for Barcelona SC; prodigy Kendry Páez from Independiente del Valle, already a national team star; keeper Domingo Ibañez's heroic saves. It's a launchpad for talents like Ismael Diaz, who shone in 2024.