The UEFA Super Cup is one of the most prestigious football tournaments in Europe, held annually to open the new continental season. It brings together the two best teams of the Old Continent — the winners of the Champions League and the Europa League (formerly the UEFA Cup or the Cup Winners’ Cup). This match symbolizes a clash of champions, styles, and football philosophies, revealing which club truly dominates European football.
The idea for such a contest appeared in 1972 thanks to Dutch journalist Anton Witkamp, who suggested determining the true “King of Europe” between the two major tournament winners. The first official match was held in 1973 between Ajax Amsterdam and Rangers. Since then, the UEFA Super Cup has grown from a symbolic fixture into a global football spectacle followed by millions of fans around the world.
Though it is technically a single match, its prestige cannot be overstated. Winning it confirms a club’s class, strengthens its status as a European powerhouse, and often serves as the first serious test for an updated squad after the summer transfer window. For many coaches, claiming the Super Cup is not just another victory — it’s a statement of respect, consistency, and success on the international stage.
Beyond its sporting value, the Super Cup carries great symbolic importance. It unites different eras of European football, as legends like Milan, Ajax, Barcelona, and Real Madrid have all lifted the trophy. For fans, the match often serves as a continuation of the Champions League or Europa League finals — and occasionally as a chance for revenge.
Over the decades, the tournament format has evolved. Originally decided over two legs, it is now played as a single game on a neutral ground chosen in advance. This change has made the event more spectacular and accessible. Although it does not match the glory of winning the Champions League, the UEFA Super Cup stands as a symbol of prestige, professionalism, and club pride.
Which Clubs Have Won the UEFA Super Cup Most Often
1. Real Madrid (Spain) — 6 titles
2. Barcelona (Spain) — 5 titles
3. AC Milan (Italy) — 5 titles
4. Liverpool (England) — 4 titles
5. Atlético Madrid (Spain) — 3 titles
6. Ajax (Netherlands) — 2 titles
7. Anderlecht (Belgium) — 2 titles
8. Bayern Munich (Germany) — 2 titles
9. Chelsea (England) — 2 titles
10. Juventus (Italy) — 2 titles
11. Valencia (Spain) — 2 titles
12. Sevilla (Spain) — 1 title
13. Manchester City (England) — 1 title
14. Aston Villa (England) — 1 title
15. Manchester United (England) — 1 title
16. Nottingham Forest (England) — 1 title
17. Dynamo Kyiv (Ukraine) — 1 title
18. Aberdeen (Scotland) — 1 title
19. Galatasaray (Turkey) — 1 title
20. Zenit (Russia) — 1 title
21. Porto (Portugal) — 1 title
22. Steaua Bucharest (Romania) — 1 title
23. Mechelen (Belgium) — 1 title
24. Parma (Italy) — 1 title
25. Lazio (Italy) — 1 title
26. Paris Saint-Germain (France) — 1 title