Ukrainian Super Cup
The Ukrainian Super Cup is the annual curtain-raiser to the domestic football season, pitting the Ukrainian Premier League champions against the Ukrainian Cup winners from the previous year. If one team claims both titles, the league runners-up step in. This high-stakes clash embodies the fresh start of the campaign, drawing packed stadiums and fervent fan support across the nation.
History and foundation
Launched in 1992, the competition has faced interruptions due to financial woes and geopolitical turmoil. Dynamo Kyiv triumphed in the inaugural 2:1 win over Borisfen. Dynamo holds the record with 14 victories, while Shakhtar Donetsk has nine. Notably, no match occurred in 2012 due to sponsorship issues, and 2022 saw cancellation amid war. In 2023, Dynamo secured their 16th title with a 3:1 victory over Shakhtar.
Tournament format
Since 2008, it's a single match on neutral ground, often in Odessa or Zaporizhzhia, lasting 90 minutes with extra time and penalties if needed. VAR has been in use since 2017. Held in August, it sets the season's tone.
Interesting facts
Average goals per match hover at 2.8, with a high of 6:3 in 2011 (Metalist win). Top scorers include Andriy Vorobey (4 goals), Junior Moraes and Marlos (3 each). Stars like Oleg Blokhin, Andriy Shevchenko (Dynamo), Darijo Srna, Fernandinho (Shakhtar), and modern talents Viktor Tsygankov and Taison have lit up the fixture.