The Italian tournament Coppa Italia is known for both exciting matches and its many traditions. The cup is also the best shot most Italian clubs have at a title without being steamrolled by reigning giants Juventus.
Coppa Italia – also known as TIM Cup since it’s sponsored by telecoms giant TIM – was introduced in 1922, and Vado were the very first winners. The tournament then took a break and was next held during the 1935/1936 season when La Torino FC nabbed the cup. Since then, another Turin-based club has reigned over it and holds the record for most titles. And that Turin club is – you guessed it – Juventus.
Juventus reign supreme in Italy and have won Coppa Italia more times than any other team. For 11 seasons, “the Old Lady” has smashed their way to victory, including the last two seasons.
But the club in black and white are not actually the team who have made it to the finals the most times. That record belongs to Roma with 17 finals, and nine wins to Juventus’ 16 cups so far.
Cup tournaments are known for surprising the fans, and Coppa Italia is no exception. With that said, it is unusual for a smaller club to make it to the finals and bring that cup home, although it does happen. The last time a smaller team (but an A Series team nonetheless) won was during the 1996/1997 season, when Vicenza won the tournament. Since then, big leaders like Parma, Lazio, Inter, Fiorentina, Milano, Roma, Napoli and Juventus have been grabbing the top spot.
Other than honour, bragging rights and a cash prize, the teams also play for a spot in the following season of the Europa League.
All teams from Italy’s top four leagues compete in the tournament.