Moldova. Federation Cup
The Moldova Federation Cup is a prominent national knockout competition run by the Football Association of Moldova (FAM). Open to clubs from top and lower divisions plus select amateurs, it offers a thrilling counterpoint to the main Moldovan Cup. Established to boost domestic football's depth, it highlights underdogs challenging elite Liga Națională sides, captivating fans with its high-stakes drama since the 2010s.
History and foundation
Launched in 2008 by FAM to broaden club participation, the inaugural edition saw second-division Saksan stun favorites to claim victory. Memorable moments include Zimbru's 2015 penalty shootout win over Dacia after a 1-1 draw, and Sheriff’s dominance in the COVID-shortened 2020 edition. A standout upset: amateur Real Sucleya reached the semis in 2017, toppling higher-tier foes and energizing rural football. Over 15 years, eight unique winners showcase its egalitarian spirit.
Tournament format
Straight knockout format with 32 teams from Liga Națională, Divizia A/B, and regional cup holders. Single-leg ties via blind draw, no seeding, from 1/16 finals in August to a neutral-venue final in May—often in Chișinău. Finals occasionally go two-legged for added spectacle.
Interesting facts
Average goals per match hover at 2.8, spiking to 3.5 in early rounds with mismatches. Top scorers: Adrian Ambros (12 for Zimbru, 2016), Theodoros Vlashi (10 for Sheriff, 2019). Stars include Vlad Cebotaru, a goalkeeping icon with countless clean sheets; Ion Nicolaescu, set-piece wizard from Milsami; and Vladimir Ambros, whose flair lit up cup ties. Prospects like Radu Gînsari launched European careers post-triumphs here.