Teams
Apoel Nicosia
Anorthosis Famagusta
AEL Limassol
Apollon Limassol
Omonia Nicosia
AEK Larnaca
Pafos FC
Doxa Katokopias
Olympiakos Nicosia
Ethnikos Achnas
Nea Salamis Famagusta
Enosis Paralimni
APK Karmotissa
Aris Limassol
Ermis Aradippou
Agia Napa
Othellos Athienou
PAEEK
AE Zakakiou
Anagennisi FC Deryneia
Akritas Chlorakas
Asil Lysis
Onisilos Sotira
Alki Oroklinis
Omonia Aradippou
Omonia 29is Maiou
Digenis Voroklinis
PO Xylotympou 2006
Thoi Lakatamias
Digenis Ypsonas
Digenis Morphou
Enad Polis Chrysochous
PO Achyronas Onisilos
Pareklisias
Achyronas Liopetriou
Peyia 2014
Olympiada Lympion
Ethnikos Assias
Halkanoras Idaliou
Omonia Psevda
Kouris Erimi
Spartakos Kitiou
Wikipedia - Cypriot Cup
The Cypriot Cup, formally known as the Cypriot Coca-Cola Cup of First and Second Division (Greek: Κύπελλο Κύπρου Coca-Cola A' B' Κατηγορίας) for sponsorship purposes, is a Cypriot knockout football club competition, hosted annually by the Cyprus Football Association.
First held in 1934, it is the second most important competition in Cypriot football, after the Cypriot First Division. Since 2008, it is contested by teams from the first and second division, while teams from the third and fourth division compete in the Cypriot Cup for lower divisions.
The winners of the Cypriot Cup qualify for one of UEFA's European competitions, and a place in the Cypriot Super Cup. APOEL are the most successful team in the competition with 21 titles, while Pafos FC are the current champions, having defeated Omonoia in the 2024 final.
History
The Cypriot Cup was first held in the 1934–35 season, the same year the Cyprus Football Association was founded. The 1934–35 Cypriot Cup was the first competition ever held by CFA, since it took part before the 1934–35 Cypriot First Division. The Cyprus Cup has been held every season since then, with the following exceptions:
- During the period 1941–1944, the competition was not held due to World War II. Many Cypriots were voluntarily enlisted in the Greek and English army, and also formed a Cypriot constitution. Most teams had undertaken a national project by collecting money and clothing to be sent to Greece in order to assist the Greek people and the army. Moreover, many Greek refugees fled to Cyprus. Due to the war conditions, the CFA decided to suspend all the competitions.
- During the periods 1955–58 and 1959–61, the competition was not held due to the unstable situation in Cyprus regarding the EOKA struggle. Meanwhile, a special cup was held in 1958–59 season. That season, the Cypriot Championship was not held for the same reasons. When the situation improved and Cyprus was heading towards independence, the CFA decided to bring back the teams which were inactive for several months and decided to launch a special cup called the "Independence Cup". The competition was official and its winners were listed as Cypriot Cup winners. The cup was held again in the 1961–62 season.
- In the 2019–20 season, the competition was abandoned after the quarter-finals, due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Since 1962, the sponsor of the competition is Coca-Cola Cyprus (Lanitis Bros Ltd). In 1998, the competition was officially named the Cypriot Coca-Cola Cup.
The tournament brings together top national teams from around the world, as well as local Cypriot clubs, creating a diverse and competitive atmosphere. With a history dating back several decades, the Cyprus Cup has become a prestigious event in the international soccer calendar.
The tournament features a round-robin format, where teams compete against each other in a series of matches. The matches are held in state-of-the-art stadiums across the island, offering spectators a chance to witness thrilling soccer action up close.
The Cyprus Cup not only showcases the talent and skills of the participating teams but also serves as a platform for players to gain valuable experience and exposure. Scouts and talent agents from various professional clubs often attend the tournament, seeking to discover emerging talents and potential future stars.
In addition to the intense on-field battles, the Cyprus Cup also offers a vibrant and festive atmosphere off the pitch. Fans from different nations come together to support their teams, creating an electric atmosphere filled with chants, cheers, and colorful displays of national pride.
Beyond the soccer matches, participants and spectators can explore the enchanting island of Cyprus during their stay. From ancient ruins and picturesque villages to stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife, Cyprus offers a wealth of attractions and experiences for visitors to enjoy.
Overall, the Cyprus Cup is a thrilling soccer tournament that combines top-level competition with the beauty and charm of Cyprus. It is a must-attend event for soccer enthusiasts, offering an unforgettable experience both on and off the field.