Australia's National cup moves quickly into a sharper second round after Croweater FC, FC Anderson Park North Sydney and Darwin Dogs supplied the loudest first-round wins. Holders FC Anderson Park North Sydney are back with last season’s 1:0 final win over Diddillibah FC still giving them the cup standard to defend.
The headline tie is Bacon Boys FC against FC Anderson Park North Sydney. FC Anderson Park North Sydney beat them in last season’s semi-final and again 4:1 in the league this year, but Bacon Boys FC have also shown their threat by beating leaders FC SPIDERS Sydney. This is a proper cup checkpoint for both.
The Japanese Cup goes straight into a headline meeting with Albirex Niigata against Aira FC. It is first against second in the J League, and Albirex carry the cleaner record: unbeaten, only two goals conceded, and already owners of a 2:0 league win over Aira this season.
Aira are hardly arriving as outsiders, though. They have scored 66 league goals in nine matches, sit only three points behind Albirex, and have already beaten both Fairy Tail and 丸男. This is the kind of tie that could change the tone of the whole cup before it has properly opened up.
The other all-J League fixture sends Fairy Tail against Matsumoto Yamaga FC. Fairy Tail’s league attack has been absurd, reaching 100 goals already, but Matsumoto have cup history on their side after beating Albirex in last season’s quarterfinals. Fairy Tail won their league meeting 1:0, so this has all the signs of a tight match hiding inside some very loud attacking numbers.
New Zealand's National cup steps into the wider draw with Blue Pixies carrying both the trophy and the league’s strongest form. Last season’s final win over Wellington Phoenix came on penalties after a 2:2 draw, but this season Blue Pixies have looked far less negotiable, winning every league match without conceding.
There is no major direct clash this round, so the pressure is on the big names to keep the bracket calm. Wellington Phoenix already opened the cup with a 16:0 win, while Just Vale, Waitakere United and Blue Pixies all enter with enough league weight to make anything but clean progress feel like a warning sign.
South Korea's National Cup has already been trimmed hard, with YooSin 태권도, Yeongjongdo Island, Swans FC, Andong Mackerels and fc olleh all producing heavy wins in the previous round.
Holders YooSin 태권도 return with last season’s 3:0 final win over fc olleh still setting the cup story, but the league picture has shifted. fc olleh are perfect after nine matches, while Andong Mackerels, Yeongjongdo Island and Swans FC are all close enough to keep the pressure real. With no major direct clash this round, the main task for the favourites is simple: avoid giving the draw an early twist.
Chinese Cup has already narrowed into a sharper round, with lanxingxing, xiaotian-inter, baobeiqiqi, Sydney Warriors, Song and Tongzhou Lions all arriving after heavy wins.
Holders lanxingxing return after last season’s 4:1 final win over xiaotian-inter, but the league chase is tighter now. xiaotian-inter and baobeiqiqi lead the table, with Tongzhou Lions, Sydney Warriors and lanxingxing close behind. With no major direct cup clash this round, the favourites simply need clean progress before the draw starts matching power with power.
Thai Cup has already produced some loud scorelines, but the holders now get the round’s real examination. Nongneng return with last season’s 1:0 final win over Uttaradit Blades behind them, and they have kept their defence moving with a 17:0 and a 14:0 in the early rounds.
The danger is that Nakhon Pathom Hunter arrive looking anything but a lower-level outsider. They are perfect in Thai 2 B with a 110:1 league record, and have already hit 16, 15 and 13 in the cup. For Nongneng, this is less about status and more about proving the trophy holders can stop a side that has been flattening everything in front of it.
Eesti Karikas has already sharpened into a serious cup field, and the holders are gone. FC Õieke were knocked out 3:2 by JK LÕVID, leaving the league leaders and several heavy scorers to carry the top-flight threat into the next cut.
The standout tie is SpordiKlubi Kaigas against Saaremaa JK. On paper it is second tier against first tier, but SpordiKlubi Kaigas lead Div. 1.1 with a 95:1 league record and have already been brutal in the cup. Saaremaa JK bring top-flight weight and their own big cup scorelines, so this is a real test of whether Kaigas are more than a lower-level wrecking ball.
Miesten Suomen cup has already produced a few heavyweight signals, with holders Sudet surviving FC Rising Force on penalties and FC Kuusysi, Pyölin pyllistys, Universe, Atalanta and Nilsiän Pallo-Haukat all moving through loudly.
The round’s clear spotlight tie is Atalanta against Nilsiän Pallo-Haukat. Nilsiän Pallo-Haukat already edged the league meeting 1:0, but Atalanta have answered with huge cup wins and remain close enough in SM-sarja to make this feel like a proper revenge chance. With Sudet still defending the trophy, this is the tie that can reshape the next layer of contenders.
Latvia's National cup reaches the sharper part of the draw with holders Lauki still carrying last season’s 2:1 final win over A J Bramlett. Their defence has looked clean so far, while FC Veltins have already made one of the loudest statements by knocking out Admirals FC and then hitting 16 in the next round.
There is no major direct clash this round, so the pressure is on control. Lauki, FC Veltins, Spars and FC Uno are packed tightly at the top of Virslīga, while FK Black Sheep arrive from below with perfect league form. The draw still gives the favourites room to breathe, but not enough room to be careless.
LFF Taure moves into another loaded round with holders RFS still carrying last season’s 3:2 final win over Jurbarko FK Lūšis. The twist is that Jurbarko FK Lūšis now lead A lyga perfectly, and have already beaten RFS 1:0 in the league.
There is no major direct clash this round, so the main story is pressure management. RFS, Jurbarko FK Lūšis, Benski šou, Futbolo Klubas Ekranas and Agrastai all have enough form and scoring power to make anything but progress feel like a warning. The favourites are still apart for now, but the cup is clearly moving toward the heavy names.
Cupa Moldovei moves into its fuller draw with holders Dacians White Wolves back after last season’s 2:0 final win over FC Hermannstadt. Their league form still makes them the main reference point, though Puddlemere United have already shown they can hurt them after that 1:0 league win.
There is no major direct clash this round, so the pressure is on the favourites to keep control. Dacians White Wolves, Puddlemere United, Straw Hat Pirates, FC Petrolul Ploiesti, FC Păduricea and FC Sheriff Tiraspol all have enough weight to make anything but progress feel like an early warning.
Pretor and Vitezistii Meet as Romania’s Cup Field Tightens
The Cupa României has reached a much sharper stage, and the standout tie is the all-Divizia A meeting between F.C.PRETOR and VITEZISTII4S™. Both came through tight round-six matches without conceding: Pretor beat RIVER.2:0, while Vitezistii edged Rahatzky Fc1:0. With so many high scorers already removed, this feels like the sort of match that can reshape the top half of the draw.
FC Caracal also carry major threat into their trip to DINAMO BUC. Caracal survived a difficult 2:1 win over Apex Strikers, and Marek Karolak now leads the cup scoring race with 44 goals. DINAMO BUC, however, have been just as stubborn in the knockouts, beating RIVER.1:0 last round, so this is a proper test of Caracal’s attacking momentum.
AFC Atletico Mangalia against Getafe CF is another dangerous cross-level tie. Atletico knocked out Thunder CF2:0, while Getafe handled Rovaniemi3:0, so neither side arrives as a soft draw. FC CRAIOVA against Abatorul Slobozia has similar upset potential: Craiova needed extra time against F.C.DISTRUGATORII, while Abatorul came through a 3:2 battle with F.C. Waldorf's.
The second-tier and third-tier battles are just as important now. F.C. B. face FC 23 Mai Onesti after both eliminated strong opposition by one goal, while FC Liverpool against FC BARCELONA brings together two sides who scored four in round six. FC LIVERP00L against U. The Champion of a Great Love* also looks finely balanced after both survived tense knockout ties.
Elsewhere, FC Dinamo 95 meet FC DOBRO with Nicolae Afrim still among the top scorers, Sanatatea Ungureni face Z'Inq with Lindoval Zanatti still chasing the leaders, and Steagu Rosu Brasov against FC Bistrita - Severin gives the round one more strong third-tier collision. Romania’s field is no longer just about giant scores; from here, almost every survivor has already proved they can win a proper cup tie.
Kupa e Shqipërisë reaches a sharper round with holders Jezerca FC still carrying last season’s 3:2 final win over Stratiots. Their defence is alive, their league form is unbeaten, and the recent 1:1 with Venator Academy FC keeps the top of Superliga tightly balanced.
The round’s clear spotlight is DREAM F.C against Venator Academy FC. Venator Academy FC already beat them 4:2 in the league and have been ruthless in the cup, but DREAM F.C have also answered with heavy scorelines and remain close enough to make this a real contender check. It is the tie that can give the draw its first major shake.
The English National Cup has landed on a compact but dangerous set of ties, led by a heavyweight meeting between Gravediggers and Heeley Harriers. Gravediggers lifted the trophy last season after beating Atletico De Madrid in the final, and they also knocked Heeley out in the semifinals. That makes this more than another top-flight cup match: it is a revenge chance for Heeley, who have struggled to turn draws into league wins but still carry enough defensive stubbornness to make the holders work.
The current English Premiership leaders, Beringen United Mightyred, face one of the round’s most awkward away trips against Ghetto Squad. Beringen have been perfect in the league and beat FC Oblwood12:0 in the previous cup round, but Ghetto have scored heavily too, including a 14:1 win over Beeches United. With Eliot Garrod, Mehmet Unaldi and Negovan Radinovic all prominent in the cup scoring list, this is not a harmless Championship obstacle.
Rougemont Rovers have another tricky Championship opponent in FWAW. Rougemont’s 9:0 win over Green Forest kept their cup form clean, but FWAW were even louder last round, beating Yidpool United20:0. Salko Andelic and Vasile Pirvulescu give FWAW real firepower, so this could easily become one of the round’s upset-watch matches.
The same is true for Blackburn Rovers Football Club against carter city. Carter are a Premiership side, but Blackburn arrive from a 6:0 win over Bristol Fury and have Charlton Ross among the leading scorers in the competition. Elsewhere, Grimsby Town FC against Misca F.C., Aston Villa F.C. against The Empire Strikers, The Golden Wonders against The Red Devils Stars, and Sutton Wanderers against Southfield United give the round a strong Championship core. With Serghei Bostan, Fitzroy Nathanson, Jo Bush, Brynjar Mar Magnusson and Omar Segovia all already past or near the 30-goal mark, England’s cup is still carrying plenty of attacking danger into the narrowing field.
Kupello Ellados moves into its fuller draw with holders AC Champions already setting the standard again. Last season’s final win over ACHAIKOS came after extra time, but this season AC Champions have started perfectly in the league and already look like the side everyone else has to catch.
There is no major direct clash this round, so the pressure is mostly on control. AC Champions, ACHAIKOS and KM Asteras F.C. have separated themselves at the top of Superleague, while Panathinaikos 1908 and kerkyra bring unbeaten lower-division form into the cup picture. The favourites have room to move, but not much room to make the draw interesting by accident.
Iceland's National Cup moves into its fuller draw with holders Football club Valur still carrying last season’s 1:0 final win over Oldboys United. The same two clubs are already locked together at the top of Úrvalsdeild, and their 1:1 league draw has kept the rivalry perfectly balanced.
There is no major direct clash this round, so the focus is on control. Football club Valur face The North, while Oldboys United look to build on their 11:0 first-round win. With Vikingur, Junkers United and a few strong lower-division sides still in the draw, the favourites cannot afford to let the cup open a door early.
Villa and Red Forest Headline a Cup Round Full of Premier Division Traps
The Irish Cup has thrown up a perfect headline tie as Irish Villa Mob meet Red Forest. They sit first and second in the Premier Division, and Villa already edged their league meeting 1:0. Both warmed up for this round with clean cup wins, Villa beating North Dublin Rebels11:0 and Red Forest matching that score against Riverside Celtic. With Red Forest carrying Alin Armeanu and Miguel Alvarez among the cup scorers, this is not just a table-topper but a proper test of Villa’s control over the season.
The holders also face a serious examination. Myaella Fc, last season’s winners after beating Leinster Lions in the final, travel to a rampant Harchester United. Harchester are perfect in Championship B, have scored over a hundred league goals already, and destroyed Green Army29:0 in the previous cup round. Myaella’s 12:0 win over redpoolofcups fc was convincing, but this draw is anything but comfortable.
B LANCHESTER UTD™ against An Cumann Peile Bóihéamach may be the clearest upset watch. B Lanchester are a Premier Division side, yet their league form has been poor, while An Cumann are unbeaten in Championship A and just beat Starz united21:0. Still, B Lanchester have cup firepower of their own, with Michael William O'Conner and Donizette Cury both high in the scoring chart.
Cowdenbeath AFC versus fast n fit has a similar feel. Fast n fit sit third in the Premier Division, but Cowdenbeath’s 23:0 win over Dublin Avengers showed how dangerous they can be. Third Lanark against Hibernia is another second-versus-first-level test, especially after Third Lanark beat Vault FC5:1 and Hibernia removed mersey vipers21:0.
The round’s pure lower-division duel is Risin1916 against RENFORD REJECTS, and it could easily be one of the best matches. Risin hit Irons for 17, Renford answered with 20 against Doylers Delights F.C, and both have multiple scorers already climbing the cup list. Ireland’s draw may only have six highlighted ties, but almost every one carries either title-race weight, holders’ pressure, or a real upset route.
W szóstej rundzie Pucharu Polski dojdzie do hitowego pojedynku drużyn z Ekstraklasy. Olimpia Pasłęk podejmie GialloRossi Wilkowice. Obie drużyny świetnie radzą sobie zarówno w lidze, jak i w pucharze. Będzie to starcie dwóch czołowych środkowych pomocników – Herberta Dziadosza i Andreasa Sjodina. Który z nich poprowadzi swoją drużynę do zwycięstwa?
W kolejnym ciekawym meczu ekstraklasowicz – NaprzódPoGorzałe – zagra z wiceliderem drugiej ligi – Bocianem Zgorzałą. Bocian w poprzedniej rundzie wyeliminował inny zespół z najwyższej klasy rozgrywkowej – Jelonki FC. Czy Bocian potwierdzi swoją formę w starciu z drużyną Milczka? Pierwsze skrzypce gra zakupiony przed sezonem doświadczony bramkarz Rejpse, ale Kaczeniak i spółka nie raz napsuli krwi Bocianowi.
Ciekawie będzie też w Gliwicach. Panteras Gliwice CF zagra z WUJEK TEAM™. Wujek po zaciętym spotkaniu w poprzedniej rundzie wyeliminował GKM Grudziądz. Z pewnością menadżer drużyny z Kolbuszowej będzie oglądał mecz w sporym stresie – główna armata drużyny, środkowy pomocnik Bettolo, potrafi rozstrzygnąć losy meczu – w obie strony. Jest świetnym strzelcem, ale też agresywnym zawodnikiem. Czy obie drużyny dograją mecz w komplecie? To z pewnością będzie bardzo zacięte spotkanie.
Polish Cup – Round 6!
The sixth round of the Polish Cup brings a heavyweight clash between two Ekstraklasa sides. Olimpia Pasłęk will host GialloRossi Wilkowice. Both teams have been performing excellently in both the league and the cup. This will also be a battle between two of the league's top central midfielders – Herbert Dziadosz and Andreas Sjodin. Which of them will lead his team to victory?
Another intriguing fixture will see Ekstraklasa side NaprzódPoGorzałe take on second-division runners-up Bocian Zgorzała. Bocian eliminated another top-flight side, Jelonki FC, in the previous round. Can Bocian maintain their form against Milczek's side? Experienced goalkeeper Rejpse, signed before the season, has been the main man, but Kaczeniak and company have caused Bocian plenty of problems on more than one occasion.
There should also be plenty of excitement in Gliwice, where Panteras Gliwice CF will face WUJEK TEAM™. Wujek eliminated GKM Grudziądz after a hard-fought game in the previous round. The manager of the Kolbuszowa side will certainly be watching this one with some nerves – their main weapon, central midfielder Bettolo, can decide the outcome of a match in either direction. He is an excellent goalscorer, but also an aggressive player. Will both teams finish the game with a full complement of players? This is certainly set to be a fiercely contested encounter.
Dundonald Test Hibs as Hawick Chase a Giant Cup Moment
The Scottish National Cup gives Dundonald Bluebell and Hibernian F.C. a top-flight tie with plenty of recent form attached. Dundonald already beat Hibs 3:0 in the league and arrive from a 24:0 cup win over Bad Gones Imperial, with Valts Azbests and Stanislaw Mialkowski among the scorers driving their run.
Hibs have been less convincing in the Premier League, but their cup form is impossible to ignore. A 26:0 win over FC Jepasoaf put them straight back into the conversation, and Jay Millar has been one of the competition’s biggest early threats.
The bigger romance belongs to Hawick Athletic FC, who come from the third level to face last season’s beaten finalists Kirn FC. Hawick have already beaten Scotland The What and Pluto Chills, but Kirn look like a far heavier wall: they reached last season’s final, opened this cup with huge wins, and have conceded only four goals in the Premier League so far.
Holders Gone as Serbia’s Cup Opens Up Around New Threats
The Kup Srbije has already lost its holders, and that gives this round a very different shape. FK Hajduk Sydney 06', last season’s winners, were beaten 1:0 by Gladijatori in round five, so the field now feels wide open. Gladijatori’s reward is another serious second-level test against Raspad United, who have quietly survived difficult draws and knocked out Fk Bregalnica1:0.
The biggest top-flight tie is FK Spartak against Kasovac Maratonci. Spartak may sit lower in the Superliga, but their cup form has been ruthless, including a 12:0 win over Forza Juve. Kasovac, third in the league and fresh from a 3:0 cup win over FK Radnik Bijeljina, bring steadier season form into a match that should tell us whether Spartak’s cup scoring can survive stronger opposition.
FC Kordun may be the most dangerous name left after removing Shooting Stars SC4:1. Their next assignment, away to Eintracht Ljutovo, is far from simple: Eintracht are second in their third-tier group and have Mijailo Cirkovic and Djukan Omerovic high on the scoring list. Another first-versus-second-level danger tie sees Club de Futbol Dve Sarme visit FC Carpath Chiefs, with both sides coming off huge round-five wins.
The lower-tier upset watch is just as strong. F.C. Fakirs already removed Roundabout2:1 and now meet Anunnaki, who survived FK Srpski Orlovi on penalties. Fc. Jesen u Duši against Arsenal RK is another sharp test after Jesen’s 22:0 win over FK Vojvodina NS, while FK Midfild face Mocni Veprovi after squeezing past F.K. PIVA SELJANI1:0.
Elsewhere, Spacer 2006 against Heroes brings together two second-level sides with serious scorers, Purpurne Kalure against ФК Анђелија is another balanced tie on paper, and Petrova Gora versus FK Zemun gives the round a strong third-tier duel. With Eivind Fjeldberg, Ilija Papuga, Niko Urbanja, Radomir Anicic, Wanderley Felicio and Vukota Malesevic all driving major cup attacks, Serbia’s bracket still has plenty of firepower even after several famous names have gone.
🏆 Giant Killers, Survival Battles, and Cup Dreams: Turkish Cup Round 7 Preview!
October 06, 2026 - 14:00 PM
Galatasaray.Sk vs. AfelSpor 🥊
Undoubtedly the ultimate blockbuster of Round 7! Two top-tier Super League teams collide in a ruthless knockout elimination match. There are no safety nets, no second chances, and no home/away advantages in this high-stakes cup tie. Will Galatasaray.Sk establish their dominance early on, or will AfelSpor cause a massive upset on cup night? Expect high-voltage drama and absolute tactical warfare!
Temiz İdman Yurdu vs. Trabzonspor 💣
A classic David vs. Goliath narrative! 4th League powerhouse Temiz İdman Yurdu, marching along on a stunning 8-game winning streak (8 out of 8!), hosts Super League side Trabzonspor. The visiting Super League giant faces a tricky trap away from home. Will the unstoppable lower-league momentum smash through Trabzonspor, or will top-flight class prevail to crush the fairy tale?
AKINCILAR-1453 vs. Karadeniz Uşakları FK ⚔️
A tight, uncompromising 2nd League showdown! Both sides are currently striving to escape the mid-table clutter in the 2nd Division. With league battles temporarily paused, this cup fixture offers a golden opportunity to build momentum. AKINCILAR-1453 will look to leverage their home turf, while Karadeniz Uşakları FK aims to steal the ticket to the next round.
AYDINSPOR vs. Akköseli_Gençlik 🛡️️
Super League side AYDINSPOR takes on 3rd League outfit Akköseli_Gençlik! The hosts are in high spirits and determined to avoid any slip-ups against lower-tier opposition. The claret-and-blue visitors face a massive mountain to climb against top-flight quality. Will AYDINSPOR march smoothly into the next round, or can Akköseli_Gençlik pull off the surprise of the tournament?
✨İstanl3ulls ✨ vs. Mahtandoz FK 🐂
An exciting clash between a 2nd League Red Group squad chasing the top and a Super League side that has found its groove! ✨İstanl3ulls ✨ wants to test their strength against top-tier quality, while Mahtandoz FK looks to lock down the backline and assert control. A fascinating tactical battle where the lower-tier hosts will fight to sink their horns into their opponents!
GOZTEPE vs. Beşiktaş Jimnastik Kulübü 💥
A fiery head-to-head between two 2nd League Red Group teams! The yellow-and-red hosts are determined to pull off a statement victory, while the black-and-white visitors aim to display their full quality. Expect physical battles, intense rivalry, and zero breathing room for 90 minutes.
Balkesspor vs. kuyucak gençlerbirliği 👑
Super League side Balkesspor, searching for its former glory, hosts 3rd League group leaders kuyucak gençlerbirliği! The home team does not want to grant any hope to their lower-tier visitors, but Kuyucak comes in with total confidence and nothing to lose. Will Balkesspor hold firm, or will the 3rd League leaders pull off a shocker?
simav vs. MİNAS TİRİTH 🏰
2nd League Red Group side simav hosts the formidable 4th League leaders MİNAS TİRİTH! The host team is eager for a morale-boosting cup victory, but the visitors arrive with momentum from the top of their division. Can the fortress of MINAS TIRITH stand tall against higher-tier competition, or will simav protect their home realm?
DEMIREL.F.C. vs. Ejder 3200 Futbol Kulübü 🐉
The plum-and-white host DEMIREL.F.C. aims to navigate past lower-tier challenger Ejder 3200 Futbol Kulübü. The home side wants a smooth cruise into the 8th Round, but Ejder 3200 comes hungry to slay a higher-tier opponent on away soil.
Besiktas JK vs. MANİSA1965 🦅
2nd League Red Group leaders Besiktas JK open their stadium doors to lower-tier side MANİSA1965! The black-and-whites want to dominate in front of their home supporters and advance cleanly, while MANİSA1965 arrives looking to orchestrate a memorable cup miracle.
Fildisi sahilleri vs. kasırga 🌪️
An all-3rd League battle! With no division difference separating the two squads, this fixture will come down to physical grit, tactical discipline, and who handles the high-pressure knockout environment better. Will the Ivory Coast squad hold firm, or will the Hurricane blow through?
Sinematografik Ataklar vs. Sarıgöl Gençlerbirliği 🎬
2nd League title contenders Sinematografik Ataklar host higher-tier side Sarıgöl Gençlerbirliği! The host team aims to write a cinematic upset script, while Sarıgöl Gençlerbirliği looks to rely on their division pedigree to secure passage to the next round.
KotyoRA FK vs. sensiz_olmuyor 💔
An intriguing cup tie full of passion and drive! KotyoRA FK aims to set the pace on their home turf, while sensiz_olmuyor visits with a fierce desire to leave everything on the pitch. A pure cup battle where heart meets tactical execution!
Pâyidar vs. Elazığspor 🦁
3rd League side Pâyidar welcomes Elazığspor, who recently departed the Super League last season and are determined to rebuild their momentum. The home side will attempt to disrupt Elazığspor's plans and score a giant-killing victory.
Sarıyer Spor Kulübü vs. kapan6spor ⚡
An exciting clash between two ambitious 3rd League teams! With both sides operating on similar footing, this encounter promises high energy, rapid attacks, and dynamic football where a single mistake could decide the tie.
Başakşehir FK vs. Yaztepe Spor 🚀
3rd League side Başakşehir FK hosts Yaztepe Spor, who are actively contending for promotion to the Super League! The hosts will look to use home advantage to cause a major disruption, while Yaztepe Spor aims to demonstrate their higher-tier quality and move forward.
The Pokal von Österreich moves quickly from the opening formalities into real pressure, and Olimpija FC begin their cup defence against SV Austria 1933. Olimpija are still unbeaten at the top of the ÖF-Bundesliga and return as holders after last season’s penalty win over NO MA´AM. SV Austria sit much lower in the league, but their latest 3:0 win over BLλCK MESA makes them a far more awkward opponent than the table alone suggests.
Kapfenberg SV against BLλCK MESA has its own league edge. Kapfenberg already beat MESA 1:0 this season and have started the cup with a 17:0 win over Fc Iljo, led by Milos Kamnar and Ingewert Bauhofer. But MESA have recent cup pedigree too, having reached last season’s semifinal before falling to NO MA´AM.
The level-gap tie sends Maribor FC against Bipa Graz. Maribor arrive from a 1:0 league win at Kapfenberg and the round’s loudest opening statement, a 26:0 cup win over WUG Austria. With Musa Dilek and Petrica Stanciu already leading the scoring list, Bipa’s task is simple to describe and very difficult to survive.
Peacocks Continue Defence as Sarajevo and Dragons Face Cup Pressure
The Kup BiH has reached a round where the top division can no longer expect an easy path. The holders, FC Peacocks almighty, travel to Borac 1926 after sweeping aside Blaugrana F.C6:1 in the previous round. On league form, Peacocks look clear favourites, and they already beat Borac heavily earlier in the season, but Borac’s 7:0 cup win over Borussia 09 Dortmund at least gives them some momentum before the toughest test possible.
The best all-Premier Liga BiH tie may be F.C. Imperial against BH Dragons. Dragons sit level on points with FK Sarajevo 1946 at the top and already beat Imperial 2:1 in the league, while Imperial are coming off a huge 22:0 cup win over Red Bull Sarajevo. With Nicholas Abbenevoli, Drzimir Brozovic, Dario Smodlaka and Nedim Isakovic all active in the scoring charts, this one has enough attacking quality to become the round’s main showpiece.
FK Sarajevo 1946 have a different kind of danger against Blue Coopers. Sarajevo lead the league and demolished F.C. Blue Warriors14:0 last round, but Blue Coopers already removed last season’s finalists FK Ljiljan in a 3:2 thriller. With Furkan Alp on 37 cup goals, they are exactly the sort of second-level side that can punish a favourite that starts slowly.
The lower-division threats do not stop there. FC Humci meet PARTIZAN FK after a 24:0 win over UTD Sakall, and Nicolae Silvasean has already reached 41 goals in the competition. The Nobles also face a difficult assignment against unbeaten FK Baščaršija, who survived Zvijezda Gradacac3:2 and still look like one of the strongest non-Premier sides in the draw.
Trahana FC against Belfast warriors carries last-season weight too, with Belfast having reached the semifinals before falling to Peacocks on penalties. FC neno united against Plavi may be the wildest second-level duel, pairing the cup’s leading scorer Mehmed Huremovic with a Plavi side that hit 18 last round. Add FC Željezničar against FK Tuzla United, and Bosnia’s round has enough heavyweight names, revenge angles, and scoring power to make the bracket feel wide open.
Kupa na Bulgaria moves into its fuller draw with holders Lazio_1900 back after last season’s extra-time final win over Val United. The league picture has already made the defence more complicated, with Val United perfect at the top and both Vereya F.C. and Kazanlŭk Thracians FC keeping the pressure close.
The round’s standout tie is Lazio_1900 against CSKA Sofia. Their league meeting finished 3:3, and CSKA Sofia have enough firepower to make this a real holder test rather than a routine step. If Lazio_1900 want another deep cup run, this is the first serious proof point.
Holders Out as HAŠK and West Herzegowina Face Dangerous Tests
The Hrvatski Kup has already delivered one major shift: Fight United Elite, last season’s winners, are gone after losing 4:1 to Hedgehogs in round four. Hedgehogs have backed that up with a 16:0 win over Matija Gubec, and now face NK Istra 1961 in one of the round’s best second-level ties. Istra arrive from a 10:0 win over Bellevue, so this is not a simple follow-up for the side that removed the holders.
HAŠK, leaders of the Prva HNL, may have the most uncomfortable draw of all against TC1980. HAŠK beat NK Selina 20067:0 last round and have been the league’s most consistent side, but TC1980 have been brutal in the lower tiers and just beat NK Školska25:0. With Mario Jerinic, Alen Djevojic and others already high in the scoring list, TC1980 have the numbers to make this a real upset watch.
West Herzegowina UTD FC also face a dangerous away tie against HNK Doli. West are second in the league and handled NK Traverza4:0, but Doli’s 27:0 win over NK Vojak was one of the loudest statements of the last round. Ward De Smedt and Iskender Karan give Doli serious scoring weight, so West will need more than league status to get through.
The lower-tier matches may be even more explosive. NK Kotor Crikvenica against TNT United puts a perfect third-level side against the team with the cup’s leading scorer, Chairat Horpibulsuk, already on 44 goals. Augustin against F.C. Real Madrid has a similar feel after Augustin survived a wild 4:4 extra-time battle with FC Blue knights, while Real Madrid have two players on 29 goals.
There are traps everywhere else too. 9 depresivaca meet unbeaten FC Dalmatia, cisco face a huge test against White Eagles, and SOD4 draw a perfect Dimension Tech side that has barely conceded all season. Add HNK Čokolino against Kamen Mali, Čingrija against F.C.Ozujsko, and Gružanin Football Club against FC Bjelovar, and Croatia’s cup bracket now looks less like a hierarchy and more like a minefield.
Czech Supercup moves into the next cut with holders RC Victoria Moravia still carrying last season’s 1:0 final win over FC Romulus. Their defence has started loudly again, but F.C. Viktoria Plzen have been just as ruthless, and both sides remain perfect in 1. liga.
There is no major direct clash this round, so the pressure is on the leading names to keep the draw clean. RC Victoria Moravia, F.C. Viktoria Plzen and FK Chrudim all look strong enough to make routine progress expected rather than impressive, while Football Magicians and FK Baník Metálka have already shown enough cup bite to stay worth watching.
The Vereinspokal brings a heavyweight Bundesliga tie with Kicker der Kokosnuss against Omega FC. Kicker lead the league unbeaten and have been brutal in the cup, scoring 25, 22 and 27 across their first three ties, with Kirk Krause already leading the scoring chart. Omega, last season’s beaten finalists, have a revenge-style opportunity of their own after holding Kicker to a 3:3 league draw only days ago.
Holders Elegant Elephants also face top-flight danger against FC Passau . Elegant beat Omega in last season’s final and sit second in the Bundesliga, but Passau already took a 1:1 league draw from them and have cup momentum after knocking out Berlin Hertha FC. This is not the softest route for a defending champion.
The clearest upset watch is TSV Allmendingen against Clube do Remo PA. TSV are bottom of the Bundesliga, while Remo lead 2.Bundesliga (B) and have already beaten FC Bayern 10:0 in the cup. Forest Club should be wary too, as BSC Dynamo schalke have already removed Athletic.
Hungarian Cup moves into its fuller draw with holders Szeged carrying last season’s 2:0 final win over Hunyadi János. Their league defence has been less clean, with Football Club SKA-Khabarovsk, Hunyadi János, Paksi Sportegyesület and Football club Pécs all sitting ahead of them in a tight early chase.
There is no major direct clash this round, so the pressure is on the bigger names to avoid making the cup noisy too early. Szeged face Gulya FC, while Football Club SKA-Khabarovsk, Hunyadi János, Paksi Sportegyesület and Football club Pécs all have enough form to make routine progress feel expected. The danger is less one headline tie and more a favourite letting the draw bite early.
Slovak Cup moves on with holders MB footbal club still carrying last season’s 2:0 final win over FC Soldiers. Their defence has started brutally, with back-to-back huge cup wins, but the loudest early warning came from FC Soldiers, who removed league leaders Spartak Trnava FC on penalties after a 1:1 draw.
There is no major direct clash this round, so the focus shifts back to control. MB footbal club, FC Soldiers, FC Petržalka akadémia, FC Jezury Sered and FC Restig Penguins all have enough league weight and cup form to make progress expected. The draw is still giving the favourites space, but the first big warning has already landed.
Dreamteam and Dortmund Meet as Holders Face a Lower-Tier Trap
The Slovenski Državni Pokal has reached a round with one obvious headline: Grosuplje Dreamteam against Borussia Dortmund. Dreamteam lead the Prva SNL, while Borussia sit close behind, and both arrive with recent cup control behind them. Dreamteam beat Bosonogi F.C.7:0, while Borussia dismissed NK Vrhnika6:0. Their league meeting already went Borussia’s way, so this tie feels like both a cup showdown and a chance for Dreamteam to answer one of their few domestic wounds.
The holders, FC Soccer Academy Red Bull, have another awkward assignment against NK Besna Glista. Red Bull removed last season’s other finalist, Olimpija 1911, with a 2:0 win in the previous round, but Besna Glista survived FUNatiki™ F. Club on penalties and have already shown they can keep a cup tie alive under pressure. For the champions, this is exactly the sort of match where reputation alone will not be enough.
Inter Miami CF also face a dangerous lower-level opponent in NK Krajnc. Inter came through strongly against AFC GRAZ, winning 4:1, but Krajnc’s 3:2 win over Nogometni Klub Lipa suggests they are not just here because of the draw. With Huseyin Kaska already on 24 cup goals and Chun-Soo Ha leading Inter’s attack on 20, this has real upset-watch energy.
The second-level and third-level battles are packed with scoring danger. NIKI-Moste meet Tapravi Kekci after both posted clean wins, while NK Tibolci against AH Team brings together two sides that have already beaten strong opposition. HNK Hajduk Split against NK Gančani 73 is another strong cross-level tie, especially after Hajduk beat NK Arsenal Trbovlje4:1 and Gančani edged Rogatec102:1.
There are no soft corners in the lower half either. MOZAIK DRUSTVO face Kontra united after both won their last cup matches without conceding, Leicester City F.C. meet FC Poochies in a tie full of previous-round momentum, and FC Harvest must handle a dangerous Big Deal FC side that just hit Recycled Loops for 19. Add FC ZALEC UNITED against LaFabrica, Metall club against NK Kanon, and Кубань Краснодар against Christchurch Rangers, and Slovenia’s cup now looks less like a path for favourites and more like a full bracket of traps.
Holders Draw Club Internationale as Goldstar Face a Top-Flight Test
The National cup has already lost one major name after THE VILLABOYS knocked out YPRES FC3:0, and now the pressure shifts to the holders. Merchtem2016, last season’s winners after a penalty final against FC Goldstar, face a dangerous tie against Club Internationale. Merchtem sit top of the Eerste Klasse and beat Futbol Club Blaugrana10:0 last round, but Club Internationale lead 2de Klasse A, remain unbeaten in the league, and have already beaten grasduiners3:1 in the cup.
FC Goldstar also get a sharp test, this time against EA SERREKES. Goldstar have been ruthless in the competition, following a 17:0 win with a 22:0 demolition of Dugout United, and Wannes Van Cansinck is still one of the leading scorers. SERREKES arrive in good league form, though, and their narrow 1:0 win over Globeshotters showed they can survive a tighter cup tie too.
The other first-level danger games are just as interesting. Fc Bijou face De Rode Leeuwen after a spectacular 17:1 win over FC Tandje Bij, while the Leeuwen have stacked up heavy cup scores of their own. SC Betekom visit AS Beveren in another awkward draw: Betekom are a steady Eerste Klasse side, but Beveren are second in 2de Klasse A and destroyed Leopard21:0 in round five.
Esperanza Pelt against THE VILLABOYS may be the cleanest upset-watch tie. Villaboys have already removed YPRES, but Esperanza are third in 2de Klasse B and reached this stage with a 12:0 win over Old Town 1891. RAEC Mons against Stvv64 also looks balanced, with Mons coming off a 6:1 win over Royal Antwerp Football Club and Stvv64 having beaten Racing Gent10:0.
Below that, R.S.C. Anderlecht against Club Brugge K.V. is the third-level side’s major chance to prove their perfect league record belongs on a bigger stage, while FC Tandje Bij against KFC Baasrode pairs two sides that have already produced strong cup runs. With SC Betekom, FC Goldstar, Club Internationale, AS Beveren, hammertime and De Rode Leeuwen all still carrying serious scorers, Belgium’s bracket looks wide open even with the holders still alive.
Carnap Return to Cup Trouble as Insomniac Face Vestegnen
Denmark’s Pokalturneringen brings several top-flight tests, but the sharpest lower-level warning may be FC Vendia against Carnap Kickers. Carnap reached last season’s final before losing on penalties to Borsholm-Skibstrup IF, yet they now face a Vendia side sitting third in 1. Division B and coming off a clean 3:0 cup win over Hagested BK.
Insomniac FC also have to handle a confident second-tier opponent in Club Vestegnen. Insomniac lead the Superligaen and have looked ruthless in the cup, but Vestegnen are third in 1. Division A and just crushed FC PortoCPH 8:0. Stade Gusteau against FC Rido offers a similar trap, with Gusteau scoring freely while Rido arrive from fifth in the top flight.
The all-Superligaen ties carry their own history. Sundby KFUM meet Ishøj Soccer Club after Ishøj beat them 3:0 in the league, while Eintracht Brunsviger and Boldklubben Herning Fremad renew a tighter rivalry after a 0:0 league draw.
Holders Face Lyonnais as Saubusse and Poulidor Renew Their Duel
The Coupe de France has reached a round full of heavyweight angles, and the holders are right in the middle of it. JFK Lusignacum, last season’s winners after beating OLIVE ET TOM in the final, now face SID LYONNAIS in one of the strongest second-level ties. JFK already knocked out Fc Clairefontaine-en-Yvelines1:0, while SID answered with a clean 3:0 win over Quentovic FC. With both near the top of LIGUE 2a, this has the weight of a late-round tie.
The top-flight spotlight falls on FOOTBALL CLUB POULIDOR against Olympique de Saubusse. Poulidor sit third in LIGUE 1 and came through the last round with a 10:0 win over Les griffons d’oc, but Saubusse have already beaten them 3:0 in the league and just removed Olympique Sportif Alsace11:0. With Alexis Grall, Kleyton Moises and Adrian Musat all prominent in the cup scoring chart, this tie has enough attacking quality to swing quickly.
FC Palestine against OLIVE ET TOM brings another all-LIGUE 1 test. Palestine survived a tight 3:2 match against Standard FC, while last season’s runners-up were ruthless against Macilia, winning 18:0. OLIVE ET TOM sit second in the league, but Palestine have already beaten Saubusse and stayed competitive with the division’s top sides, so this is not just a favourite’s formality.
The cross-level danger games are even sharper. OMforEVER meet AS Saint-Étienne after both survived very different tests: OMforEVER edged Racing Club de Lens on penalties, while Saint-Étienne beat Fluctuat Nec Mergitur10:0. panenka against St. Senoux Spiders also looks dangerous, pairing one of LIGUE 2b’s strongest sides with a top-flight team that just won 11:0.
Elsewhere, Rookies F.C face AS Air Force, FC Grenoble meet les Loups noirs, and Aulnay take on FC Katon in ties loaded with cup scorers. FHV2 against La Squadra Azzurra may be the most explosive lower-tier clash, with both sides having already produced huge wins, while Mikanissa against OS FIVES CLUB adds another balanced second-level battle. France’s draw is no longer about easy routes; almost every surviving name now has either recent cup proof, league standing, or a scorer capable of deciding the tie alone.
Holders Meet Realjoggi Again as Italy’s Cup Draw Loads the Top Flight
The Coppa Italia has reached a sharp round very quickly, and the headline is a repeat of last season’s quarterfinal between Il Circolino and Realjoggi. Il Circolino eventually lifted the trophy after beating Chipperfield in the final, and they arrive as current Serie A leaders after a controlled league start. Realjoggi, however, are fourth in the same division and just destroyed FC Pajuelvi24:0 in the previous cup round, so this is not a comfortable defence of the crown.
The other all-Serie A ties are just as useful for measuring the field. Linceo face Atletico Sacca after edging Coccinella fc592:1, while Atletico needed only one goal to remove Montreal. FC Umana Reyer against AC Asti could be tighter still: Umana hit Bonascola14:0, but Asti have been harder to beat in the league and came through their last cup tie with a clean 3:0 win over apollo70.
The biggest upset-watch match may be Ghemon Team against Barca nel Bosco. Ghemon sit second in Serie A and have been brutal in the cup, beating Lambrusco fc18:0 after an even bigger score in round two. But Barca nel Bosco are perfect in Serie C-5, have scored heavily all season, and reached this stage with a 14:0 win over D. S. Predarossa. For a third-level side, they look unusually dangerous.
AC Vitasana face a similar problem against AS Muflone. Vitasana are a top-flight side, but Muflone lead Serie C-8, came through round three 8:0, and have Cedo Djuricanin among the cup’s leading scorers. Venice United against Pizza della Pia is another awkward first-versus-second-level tie, especially with Pizza carrying Danilo Gennari near the scoring race.
The second-level bracket also has bite. Classica Lanusei against Real Cambo brings together two sides from the top end of Serie B-1, while deportivo arsenico meet sporting lanusei after both produced clean wins last round. FC Sevilla against Chipperfield gives the beaten finalists a difficult trip after Sevilla’s 12:0 win over Juventus. Add Barzot Team, Monte Darena Academy, Fish Football Club and ippogrifo elsewhere in the draw, and Italy’s cup already feels like it has skipped the warm-up stage.
Alliance Face Harchester as Montenegro’s Cup Draw Opens the Trapdoor
The Nacionalni kup Crne Gore has reached a dangerous stage, and the leaders of the Prva liga get one of the most intriguing tests. For The Alliance face Harchester United FC after beating Shamrock Rovers3:0, but Harchester arrive unbeaten in Treca F liga and already removed Olympique Lyonnaiis1:0. This is exactly the kind of tie where a first-level side has the status, but the lower-tier challenger has enough form to make it uncomfortable.
STORMWIND have a similar problem against FC Mornar Bar. Their 14:0 win over FK Trupine Zatrijebač looked convincing, but league form has been difficult, while Mornar Bar sit high in Druga B liga and already beat Mogren Budva FK4:1. With Kyu Hwang Rae leading the cup scoring race on 20 goals, this is one of the clearest upset routes in the draw.
Yellow Pillow against OFK Titograd Podgorica is another first-versus-second-level clash with plenty of scoring danger. Yellow Pillow hit Conquistadores for 18, while Titograd beat KnightsOfTheOldRepublic20:0. Andres Mario Sleseris Bufano, Golub Cubranovic and Vukoman Vukotic are all already high in the scoring list, so this one looks capable of turning wild if either defence starts badly.
The strongest pure second-level tie is AC Neophyte against Dota. Neophyte lead Druga A liga, have a perfect league record, and followed a 33:0 cup win with an 18:0 demolition of СФК Црно бијели орлови. Dota, however, are not far behind in the same tier and have Md Sayedur Karim and Helio Calvo among the top cup scorers. That gives the round a real second-level heavyweight duel.
Newcastle United FC also carry major danger into their meeting with Club Atlético de Madrid S.A.D.. Newcastle are second in Druga A liga and beat Random club '1219:0, while Atlético are struggling in the top division despite knocking out Real Betis5:1. FK Irisi against S.V. Werder Bremen adds another cross-level trap after Irisi’s 14:0 win over FC Zomax United®. With holders Nottingham Forest FC still elsewhere in the bracket, Montenegro’s cup has both the old champion in play and several challengers already looking ready to shake the draw.
Holders Face Pink as DeDonnys Run Into Immediate Revenge Trouble
The National cup has delivered a loaded Dutch round, and the holders are right in the middle of the danger. SV Houten, last season’s winners after beating Carlstad United in the final, now visit SC Pink. Houten looked sharp with a 13:0 win over Dreamteam FC, and Onno Scheepsma is joint-top of the cup scoring list, but SC Pink already survived a tighter cup test against IJs van Caraco and remain a top-flight opponent with enough structure to make this awkward.
The strongest all-Eredivisie tie is Lazio Berkel against DeDonnys. DeDonnys lead the league and knocked out 1461 Firtina4:1, but Lazio just beat them 1:0 in the league and warmed up with an 8:1 cup win over amsterdam. That gives the tie a proper revenge angle, especially with DeDonnys trying to prove their league lead can survive knockout pressure.
PEC Zwolle also have a dangerous draw away to Vuura FC. PEC are second in the Eredivisie and dismissed De beste reserves10:0, but Vuura sit third in Eerste Divisie B and already removed Fc Fartree1:0. With Ernst Felberg scoring freely for PEC and several Vuura players already on the chart, this is far from a routine trip.
The cross-level pressure continues elsewhere. SSSE face FC Robbie, the unbeaten leader of Eerste Divisie A, after both won heavily in round five. Abel United meet Ceasar Empire after Abel’s 5:1 win over de onvergetelijke Gerrit Dekzijl, while YUNUSLAR FC get a top-flight shot against Slayer after hammering FC BOSNA20:0. None of those look like comfortable assignments for the higher-level sides.
There is danger lower down as well. Lucky Eleven against Akcaabat Sebatspor brings together two teams with major cup scorers, while Delson FC against Club Wouse is a spectacular third-tier collision: Delson beat motorhead utd5:0, and Club Wouse crushed Deppenbroek Enschede24:0. Add Carlstad United against a free-scoring FC Otso, plus DierenArk Haarlem against FCTWENTE76, and the Dutch bracket looks deeper than ever. The holders are still alive, last season’s beaten finalists are still alive, but neither has been handed anything close to a soft path.
The Norwegian National Cup brings two all-Tippeligaen ties into focus, starting with Godset against Bella FC. The table keeps them close, but the routes here feel different. Godset needed a tight 1:0 win over derby county fc last round and have been wildly up and down in the league. Bella, meanwhile, arrive after a 15:0 cup win over NordWolves and a stubborn 0:0 league draw with holders Oftebro United.
Super Leeds against Torden has the sharper form contrast. Leeds sit near the bottom of the Tippeligaen, but the cup has given them a completely different face, with 14:0 and 25:0 wins in the last two rounds. Stanko Jovanovic has been central to that surge.
Torden bring stronger league form and recent cup pedigree, having reached last season’s semifinal after beating Kazor Villains. Their 2:0 cup win over unbeaten Adeccoligaen B leaders Lyn also makes this one of the round’s clearest danger ties.
Holders Open Against Wisla as Sá FC Face a Dangerous Detour
The Taça de Portugal has reached a crowded and dangerous round, with the holders again carrying the spotlight. Galacticos C.P., last season’s winners after an extra-time final against Sá FC, face Wisla Kraków after another emphatic cup step, a 15:0 win over Real Mediterrâneo FC. Wisla answered with the same score against Alto do Moinho, and although Galacticos lead the Superliga, this is exactly the kind of tie where a second-level side with recent scoring form can make the holders work.
Sá FC themselves have an awkward trip to Tiky Wiky. Sá FC sit third in the top division and beat C D Pinhalnovense3:0 last round, but Tiky Wiky have been ruthless in the cup, following earlier heavy wins with a 16:0 demolition of SPORTING. With Marco Luz, Chumporn Sattayanon and others already high in the scoring list, this looks like one of the round’s clearest upset routes.
Futebol Clube do Porto also face a difficult second-level opponent in Sport Ponte Mucela FC. Porto remain second in the Superliga and beat Benfica 4ever4:0, but Ponte Mucela have already shown they can handle big cup pressure. Hursid Zubak, Eurico Feio and several others give them enough threat to make this more than a league-status mismatch.
The top division is under pressure elsewhere too. alfistas meet Sport Lisboa e Benfica after a strong 5:2 win over Santa Cruz FC, while Independente SC get a shot at Vale Pisão after beating Lusitanos F.C.7:0. Colinas FC against FC Saense and AS Roma against Sumolix Stars add two more ties where the lower-level side has enough cup scoring to worry a Superliga opponent.
The lower-tier side of the draw is just as explosive. Red Eagles F.C. against Agalloch FC pairs two third-level teams with serious firepower, while New Order have to handle a Defenders & Midfielders side that already removed Sport Aveiro e Benfica1:0. Junqueiro A.C. against C. Alentejano D. Vimieirense brings the cup’s leading scorer Helio Capela into another second-level duel, and Atalaia against Grupo Desportivo de Chaves may be one of the toughest tests of all after Chaves squeezed past Sport Machados da Surriba. Portugal’s bracket still has the holders, the beaten finalists, and several scoring machines alive — but very few safe routes left.
Boitano’s Revisit Lidbar as Gran Canaria Test Leaders
The Spanish National Cup brings Brian Boitano's back together with RCD Lidbar, a pairing with recent knockout weight. Brian beat Lidbar 3:0 in last season’s semifinal before losing the final to Drunks Oilers on penalties, so the second-tier visitors arrive with both form and revenge in the air. Lidbar are flying in Segunda Division (B), third with 63 league goals, and their cup attack has already produced heavy wins over Club Dé Español and Sporting de Chamartin.
Brian remain the top-flight favourites, sitting third in Primera Division, but their latest 1:1 draw with CE L'Hospitalet leaves just enough room for doubt. With Vlad Iliescu and Younes Bounab scoring freely for Lidbar, this is no soft draw.
The other key tie is Gran Canaria against leaders KaKaTuaS. Gran Canaria are perfect in Segunda Division (A), with 80 goals scored and none conceded, while KaKaTuaS are unbeaten at the top level. Something has to bend.
The Swedish National Cup brings last season’s finalists back into focus, starting with Norrlandsfotboll FC against Uppsala Kickers. Norrlands lost that unforgettable final to Slovenia Dreamteam after a 4:4 classic, and they now lead the Allsvenskan with the league’s most explosive attack. Their recent 29:0 league win over Wardens of the North underlined the form, and they already beat Uppsala 5:0 earlier this season.
Uppsala have had a harder league campaign, but their cup run has been clean: 17:0 over Göteborg IFK and 6:0 against Linkeboda FF. If they are to trouble Norrlands, they will need that cup version to show up immediately.
The other headline is IFK Hägersten against holders Slovenia Dreamteam. Their league meeting ended 0:0, so this is no routine defence for Slovenia, even if the champions arrive with Pelle Albrektsson leading the cup scoring chart and fresh momentum from beating Nordic Vikings.
The Swiss National Cup gives fc walhalla a serious defence test against NK Bugojno. The holders are still alive after a 19:0 win over Matz, but their league rhythm has taken a hit: they lost 2:0 to NK Bugojno recently and then 2:0 to leaders The steelheads. Bugojno sit level with them on points in the Super league, and their own 18:0 cup win over Helvetia Soccer SV makes this feel far closer than a normal holder’s assignment.
The other all-Super league tie brings fc schönspieler back into the spotlight against The steelheads. Last season, schönspieler beat The steelheads after extra time in the quarterfinals before losing the final to walhalla. This season, however, The steelheads lead the league unbeaten and already held schönspieler to 0:0 in their league meeting.
Schönspieler still carry obvious cup danger, especially with Lars Wegmuller leading the scoring charts, but this round asks whether last season’s finalists can still punch above their league form.
Kouba Face Perfect L’VATATA as Algeria’s Cup Draw Turns Heavy
The Coupe d'Algérie has reached a round where league status alone will not protect anyone. The biggest cross-level test sends RC Kouba, leaders of the Premiere division and last season’s beaten finalists, to FC L'VATATA. Kouba swept past Aerohabitat Football Club10:0, but L'VATATA have been perfect in Super D2 A and just beat Fc.karmouss18:0. With Saad Khadara and Abed Soltani already high in the scoring list, this is a serious danger tie for the league leaders.
The top-flight headline is Banu Zayan FC against EL KSEUR STARS FC. Banu Zayan recovered from a difficult league spell with a 9:0 cup win over Boubarrita, and Antoni Smolinski leads the entire cup scoring race with 42 goals. EL KSEUR, however, have already removed Club Sportif Constantinois2:1, so this is not just another stop on Banu Zayan’s scoring tour.
Mouloudia Club Oran against The Black Pearl gives the round another all-Premiere division tie with real weight. Oran are second in the league and beat MC El Djazair6:0, while Black Pearl answered with a brutal 16:0 win over CR Belouizdad. They also meet again soon in the league, which makes this cup match feel like the first part of a wider domestic argument.
The second-level battles are just as sharp. Blood & Gold FC meet Ouchène Irougueln after both produced major round-five wins: Blood & Gold beat Jeunesse Sportive Kabylie14:0, while Ouchène edged ALPAVASTUNE3:2. With Farouk Boudjelid, Saber Ziani, Ondrej Harmata and Hopkin Norris all prominent in the cup scoring chart, this could be one of the round’s best attacking contests.
Mcoran against USM Alger is another dangerous second-versus-first-level clash. Mcoran’s 21:0 win over J B TEAM was one of the loudest statements of the previous round, but USM Alger responded with an 18:0 win over mca oued. Boukhelifa CF against Numidian Stars and Casablanca Royal FC against Sheva complete a set of ties full of scorers and upset routes. With holders USM.GAZA still elsewhere in the bracket, Algeria’s cup now has both history and chaos pulling in the same direction.
Copa Argentina has already found its first major twist: holders Celeste Jrs. are out. Last season’s final win over AC Olympic gave them the cup standard, and they still lead Primera division, but Los Garrafas dragged them into extra time and sent the defence down 3:1 after a 1:1 draw.
That opens the bracket for the rest of the heavy names. AC Olympic, VALIANT SOUL (F.C.), Motive Club, racing club and Renato Fc all remain dangerous, while Internazionale San Isidro, Batacazo FC and Sindicalistas de la Birra bring perfect lower-division form into the cup picture. With no major direct clash this round, the pressure is simple: do not waste the opening the holders have left behind.
Holders and Finalists Return to a Brazil Cup Round Full of Traps
The Copa do Brasil has reached a heavyweight stage, and the holders are back under pressure immediately. Douradina City, last season’s winners after beating Desportivo Sol in the final, meet Colorado da Serra after surviving a 3:2 battle with bnetto. Colorado, meanwhile, crushed Super Corinthians FC13:0, and with Sigmar Larusson, Petre Tudorache and Pedro Miguel Defante already high in the cup scoring list, this is not a gentle defence of the crown.
The beaten finalists have their own awkward tie. Desportivo Sol face Baile de Munique br after edging Geny F.C on penalties, while Baile removed Electro Club1:0. Sol’s league form has been poor, but their cup pedigree is obvious, and that makes this one of those matches where history and current momentum are pulling in different directions.
The main top-flight clash is Na Canela™ against São Paulo F.C.. Na Canela beat Centro Sportivo Alagoano2:0, São Paulo edged Athayde FC2:1, and both are packed close together in the Campeonato Brasileiro table. With São Paulo already having beaten Na Canela in the league, this cup tie gives Na Canela an immediate chance to answer back.
Udi City F.C also face danger despite leading the top division. Their penalty win over Avanti Palestra! was a warning, and now they meet @intervalqueire, who knocked out Lecaho Futebol2:0 and have several players on the scoring list. 3Kings United against Nivek United has a similar edge: 3Kings beat Taromagento FC3:0, but Nivek’s 6:0 win over Sport Club Kalavritians Paulista kept their own cup form looking sharp.
The lower half of the draw may be just as dangerous. Sport Club Flecha, another of last season’s semifinalists, meet Capelópolis FC after both removed strong opposition by a single goal. Atletic Rock against Futebol FC is a tight second-level duel, while Niterói Futebol Clube against BOTACOCA pairs two sides who kept clean sheets in round six. Add Lôbrego FC against ATHLETICO PRaiano, Flamengo Nordestino RN against Campinas Futebol Clube, Tapanace Melhor against FC Homero, and Esporte Clube Baconlândia against Meier Futebol Clube, and Brazil’s bracket feels every bit as deep as expected. The holders are still alive, but this round gives almost nobody a safe route forward.
Bolivia's National Cup jumps straight into a serious checkpoint, with holders Royal Pari drawn against last season’s beaten finalists Blooming. Royal Pari lifted the trophy with a 2:0 final win over Blooming, and their league form still marks them as the side to chase.
This time, though, Blooming have already held them to a 0:0 league draw, so the tie carries more weight than a normal early cup step. Royal Pari lead Asociacion Boliviana de Futbol, with Juan Carlo Balón and Club Bolívar close behind, but this is the match that can immediately test whether the holders still control the cup story.
Canada's National Cup moves into its fuller draw with holders North Mississauga SC back after last season’s 3:0 final win over Quebec Football Club. Their league form has been uneven, though, while Bulletproof Monks, NorVan FC, The Lads and Quebec Football Club are already setting the stronger pace.
The round’s clear spotlight tie is Quebec Football Club against FC Newmarket. They already drew 2:2 in the league, and FC Newmarket have enough scoring threat to make this a real test for last season’s beaten finalists. With the holders still trying to regain their sharpest edge, this is the match that can shape the early cup story.
Copa Chile has already lost its holders, after Lexeros Futbol Club knocked out Deportivo Chiloe 2:1 in the previous round. That gives last season’s beaten finalists a powerful early statement, especially with Deportivo Chiloe still leading Campeonato Chileno.
The round’s direct spotlight is Club de Deportes Concepción against Athletic Valhalla. Athletic Valhalla already beat them 2:0 in the league and have been ruthless in the cup, but Club de Deportes Concepción have answered with heavy wins of their own. With the holders gone, this is exactly the kind of tie that can decide who steps into the open space.
The Copa Colombia serves up two all-Liga Dimayor ties, and crespo f.c against Real city carries the freshest scar. Real city beat crespo 4:0 in the league only days ago, a result that underlined the gap between a mid-table side and a crespo team still trying to turn cup scoring into league stability. Both were emphatic in the previous cup round, though, with Real city beating Red Hat 10:0 and crespo answering with a 9:0 win over Colombia Dreamteam.
VALLEDUPAR FC against Arhuacos Sporting Club looks tighter on paper. Their league meeting finished 1:1, but their recent paths have diverged: Arhuacos arrive from a sharp 2:0 win over Atlético Nacional S. A., while VALLEDUPAR were beaten 3:1 by Samarios FC. Still, VALLEDUPAR’s cup attack has been ruthless, with Daniel Eslava already high among the scorers.
With holders FC Svargrond already absent from this stage, these ties give the round its clearest top-flight pressure points.
Copa Azteca moves into its fuller draw with holders Assisi Lagos Nueva Galicia back after last season’s 3:1 final win over Fc MEWA. The league story has shifted, though: Fc MEWA are perfect after nine matches and have already beaten the holders 1:0 this season.
There is no major direct clash this round, so the pressure is on control. Fc MEWA, Assisi Lagos Nueva Galicia, Perro Loko FC and Octopus MX all have enough form to make progress expected, while C.D. Guadalajara have already opened the cup with an 11:1 statement. The favourites are still apart, but the chase around the holders is already sharper than last season.
Holders Meet Betis as Huancayre Get Inferno Rematch
The Copa Peru gives Vilcabamba CD a dangerous defence check against Real Betis Balonpie. Vilcabamba are the holders after last season’s 3:0 final win over UC Real Lima, and they arrive in good rhythm after beating America Huancayre FC. 1:0 in the league. But Betis are perfect in Segunda Division B, with 125 goals scored and only one conceded, and their cup path has already included a 26:0 win over Ajax Lima and an 11:0 win over Club Atletico Matellini.
The all-Descentralizado tie is just as sharp: America Huancayre FC. against Inferno United. Huancayre already beat Inferno 2:0 in the league and have the cup’s standout scorer in Mercurio Jacobs, but Inferno come in boosted by a 1:0 win over Real Madrid CF.
With both matches carrying recent league form, cup pedigree and revenge angles, this round has two fixtures that feel much later than the draw says.
The United States National Cup has a strong rematch at the centre of the round: FC Seher Bosna against Rockledge FL. Bosna knocked Rockledge out 4:1 in last season’s quarterfinals before reaching the final, and they now arrive as Championship leaders after beating Goal Diggers 2:0. Rockledge are a level lower, but their USL One B record is serious: third place, 82 goals scored, only two conceded, and two heavy cup wins already.
Galaxy LA also face a dangerous lower-level challenger in FC Dallas. Galaxy sit third in the Championship and already avenged last season’s cup exit by beating Telluride Smugglers, but Dallas are unbeaten in USL One B and have scored freely in the cup, with Andre Luis Schumacher and Gabriel Ferrero leading the way.
The all-Championship tie between TeamScout and SmarTeam should be tighter than the table suggests. SmarTeam won their league meeting 2:1, but both sides arrive from contrasting cup blowouts and will know this is one of the few routes to avoid the round’s bigger giants.
Uruguay's National cup moves into its fuller draw with holders Gunners Team 1886 still carrying last season’s 4:1 final win over Mauá Futsal. The champions also lead Campeonato Uruguayo Garra Charrúa, but the chase is not clean, especially after Semen Bremen already beat them 1:0 in the league.
The round’s direct spotlight is Mauá Futsal against Semen Bremen. Mauá Futsal won their league meeting 2:0, but their recent losses to Gunners Team 1886 and C.A. Torque have added pressure to the cup response. Semen Bremen have already shown they can trouble the top of the table, so this is a real contender check for last season’s beaten finalists.
The Copa Simon Bolivar reaches a fascinating stage with two second-tier monsters trying to turn numbers into a statement. Zulia FC face El Tigre Gunners, and this is no ordinary level gap. Zulia have climbed back into the 1era Division chase after a 6:0 league win over Juventus de Venezuela, but El Tigre arrive perfect in 2da División B, with 123 league goals scored and none conceded.
The other headline may be even bigger. Young Boyz host leaders Union Atletico Falcón after already knocking out Real K'tupis FC 5:1 in the previous cup round. Young Boyz have been ridiculous in 2da División A, winning nine from nine with 216 goals and no goals conceded, but Falcón are unbeaten at the top level and just beat Pepeventus F.C 4:1 in the league.
With holders Luxus FC, Tequeños de chocolate and Petroglifos de Guacara also still in the draw, this round could either confirm the old order or give Venezuela a serious cup shock.
