Portuguese Cup. Women
The Portuguese Women's Cup, officially Taça de Portugal Feminina, is the premier knockout competition for women's football clubs in Portugal, run by the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF). It brings together teams from all levels, creating thrilling upsets and showcasing the burgeoning talent in Portuguese women's soccer.
History and foundation
Launched in 1985, the cup marked the dawn of organized women's football in Portugal. Early dominance came from Boavista and 1º Dezembro, with the latter claiming multiple titles. A standout moment: 1º Dezembro's 22-0 thrashing in 1998 remains a record. Benfica surged in the 2010s, lifting the trophy in 2019 and 2023 amid the national team's rise post-Euro 2017. The 2020 edition fell victim to COVID-19, but it rebounded with heightened interest.
Tournament format
Single-elimination format with 1/64, 1/32, round of 16, quarterfinals, semifinals, and final. Up to 80 teams from across divisions compete, starting in autumn and culminating in a spring final at venues like Estádio Nacional. Seeding for top clubs was introduced recently to balance draws.
Interesting facts
Average goals per match hover at 3.2, spiking to 5+ in early rounds. Top scorers include Jessica Silva (Benfica, 25+ goals) and Edmilson (Boavista, 18). Stars like Teli Pescadeira (1º Dezembro legend), Ana Jorge (Benfica skipper), and Jessica Clitheroe have lit up the competition with flair and finishing, nurturing talents like Marina Gonçalves who went pro in Europe.