Estonian Supercup
The Estonian Supercup is an annual football match that kicks off the season in Estonian football. It pits the champions of the previous Meistriliiga season against the Estonian Cup winners. If one team claims both titles, they face the league runners-up. This high-stakes opener sets the tone for the year, captivating fans and crowning early-season heroes.
History and foundation
Launched in 1991 as the Estonian Supercup, the inaugural match saw Kalev champions take on FK Tallinn Cup holders, with Tallinn edging a 2:1 victory. The 1990s and 2000s saw dominance by Flora and Levadia, each securing 7 wins. A quirky note: the 1999 edition was scrapped due to Levadia's financial woes. Flora holds the record with 9 triumphs. The 2020 edition fell victim to COVID-19, a rare hiatus. Since 2019, A. Le Coq beer sponsorship has infused the event with festive flair.
Tournament format
The format is straightforward: a single match, typically on a neutral venue or one team's home ground. Played over 90 minutes, it goes to extra time and penalties if tied. Held in early July before Meistriliiga starts, often at A. Le Coq Arena or Kadriorg Stadium in Tallinn, occasionally in regional spots to boost grassroots interest.
Interesting facts
Average goals per match hover at 2.8, with thrillers hitting 5-6. Top scorers include Richard Alabweireld (2 goals in 2011 for Levadia) and Henrik Vaht for Flora. Standout players: Konstantin Vassiljev of Nõmme Kalju, Robert Prohászka from Levadia, and foreigners like Serbian Milan Pantović. Recent stars like Atle Markusson and Mark-Ole Magnusson from Paide bring Nordic grit. It's a launchpad for youth from Flora's academy.