Israel Super Cup
The Israel Super Cup kicks off the Israeli football season with a high-stakes clash between the Premier League champions and the State Cup winners. If one side claims both, the league runners-up step in. This fixture embodies Israel's football passion, blending rivalry with prestige.
History and foundation
Launched in 1955 with Hapoel Tel Aviv edging Maccabi Tel Aviv, the Super Cup has seen 52 editions, paused only by wars. Maccabi Haifa tops the roll with 8 wins, followed by Maccabi Tel Aviv and Hapoel Tel Aviv on 7 each. Highlights include Bnei Sakhnin's 1990 run as the first Arab club finalist and Maccabi Haifa's 4-1 demolition of Hapoel Be'er Sheva in 2023. The 2020 edition fell victim to COVID-19.
Tournament format
It's a single knockout match on neutral ground, often at Sammy Ofer or Teddy Stadium. Full 90 minutes, extra time, and penalties if tied. Draws crowds of 10,000–20,000, serving as a season taster.
Interesting facts
Averaging 2.8 goals per game, peaking at 3.5 in the 2010s with attacking flair. Top scorers like Eyal Berkovic notched 3. Icons such as Ronen Harazi, Vitor, and Eran Zahavi lit up finals. Today's stars like Dean David and Frantzdy Pierrot keep the goal-fests alive.