Hungarian Cup
The Hungarian Cup is Hungary's oldest national knockout competition, held annually since 1909 by the Hungarian Football Federation (MLSZ). It features clubs from all tiers, from NB I elites to amateurs, renowned for upsets and underdog tales. In 2023/24, Ferencváros clinched the title, defeating Paks 2-0 in the final.
History and foundation
Launched as the Magyar Király-kupa in the Austro-Hungarian era, the first final in 1909 saw Ferencváros beat MTK 3-1. Budapest giants dominated interwar years, with Ferencváros and MTK claiming 15 cups. Post-WWII, 1950s successes went to Vasas and Honvéd, the latter famed for Puskás' dynasty. Notably, Ferencváros won three straight in the 1980s, while Diósgyőr shocked in 2010. Interrupted only by wars and pandemics, it embodies Hungarian football resilience.
Tournament format
Single-elimination knockout format from 1/64 finals, with up to 128 teams. Main stage kicks off in July-August, final in spring at Puskás Aréna, Budapest. Since 2010s, seeding protects top clubs from early clashes.
Interesting facts
Average goals per match: 2.8, peaking at 4 in early rounds. Ferencváros leads with 28 wins. Top scorers: Ferenc Deák (22 goals, 1930s), Lajos Kű (16, 1960s). Stars: Ferenc Puskás (Honvéd), Lajos Tichy (Ferencváros), modern like Barnabás Varga and Roland Sallai, whose cup heroics shine.