The European Cup Winners’ Cup, affectionately known as Europa Cup II, has an enduring legacy as one of the most dramatic and exciting competitions in European football. While it was merged with the UEFA Cup in 1999 to form today’s Europa League, its spirit lives on in a tournament that continues to provide thrilling moments, legendary matches, and underdog triumphs. Together, the Cup Winners’ Cup and Europa League have created a storied history that spans decades and celebrates the beauty of European club football.

Legendary Teams: Masters of Two Eras

The history of these tournaments is filled with extraordinary teams that defined their eras. In the Cup Winners’ Cup, few teams were as dominant as Barcelona, who won the trophy a record four times. Their 1979 triumph, led by Johan Neeskens and Hans Krankl, marked the start of their European resurgence. The thrilling 4-3 victory over Fortuna Düsseldorf in the final remains one of the competition’s most exciting matches.

Another standout from the Cup Winners’ Cup era is Dynamo Kyiv, who lifted the trophy twice (1975 and 1986) under the guidance of tactical genius Valeriy Lobanovskyi. Their 1975 victory, spearheaded by Oleg Blokhin, was a testament to their revolutionary fitness and pressing game. Similarly, Aberdeen’s 1983 triumph under a young Alex Ferguson remains a landmark moment, as the Scottish side defeated European giants Real Madrid in extra time to claim the trophy.

As the Cup Winners’ Cup evolved into the Europa League, new dynasties emerged. Sevilla have established themselves as the competition’s most dominant force, winning the Europa League a record seven times between 2006 and 2023. Under Unai Emery, they clinched three consecutive titles from 2014 to 2016, with players like Éver Banega and Kevin Gameiro embodying the team’s fighting spirit and quality.

Atlético Madrid have also left their mark on the Europa League, winning three titles (2010, 2012, 2018). Their 2012 victory, led by Radamel Falcao, was particularly memorable, with the Colombian striker delivering a masterclass in finishing during their 3-0 win over Athletic Bilbao in the final.

Legendary Matches: The Drama Lives On

Across both competitions, the finals and knockout rounds have delivered some of the most dramatic matches in European football history. The 1979 Cup Winners’ Cup final between Barcelona and Fortuna Düsseldorf was a seven-goal thriller that showcased end-to-end attacking football. Barcelona’s eventual 4-3 victory in extra time remains one of the most entertaining games in European history.

Fast forward to the 1983 Cup Winners’ Cup final, where Aberdeen shocked Real Madrid with a 2-1 victory in extra time. The Scots, led by Alex Ferguson, displayed incredible resilience and tactical acumen to claim one of the competition’s most iconic wins.

In the Europa League era, Liverpool’s semi-final clash with Borussia Dortmund in 2016 stands out as an all-time classic. Trailing 3-1 on aggregate, Liverpool mounted an extraordinary comeback at Anfield, with goals from Philippe Coutinho, Mamadou Sakho, and a late winner from Dejan Lovren sparking unforgettable scenes in front of the Kop.

Another unforgettable match was Chelsea’s 2019 Europa League final victory over Arsenal. With Eden Hazard delivering two goals and an assist, Chelsea’s 4-1 triumph demonstrated their class and dominance on one of Europe’s biggest stages.

Top Players: Icons of Europa Cup II and the Europa League

Many legendary players have graced these tournaments. During the Cup Winners’ Cup era, Oleg Blokhin was a standout for Dynamo Kyiv, combining blistering pace with clinical finishing. His contributions in the 1975 and 1986 victories cemented his status as one of the competition’s greatest.

Gianfranco Zola dazzled for Chelsea in the 1998 Cup Winners’ Cup final, scoring the decisive goal in a 1-0 win over Stuttgart. His flair, vision, and technical skill were instrumental in Chelsea’s success and showcased the competition’s role in nurturing great players.

In the Europa League era, Radamel Falcao has become synonymous with the competition. His 17-goal campaign for Porto in 2011, including the winner in the final, remains one of the most prolific displays in European football. He followed this up with another stellar campaign for Atlético Madrid in 2012, scoring twice in the final.

Éver Banega is another name etched in Europa League history. As the orchestrator of Sevilla’s midfield during their three consecutive triumphs from 2014 to 2016, Banega’s composure and creativity made him indispensable.

Top Performances: Nights of Brilliance

Individual brilliance has often defined the magic of these tournaments. Hans Krankl’s goals in Barcelona’s 1979 final win against Fortuna Düsseldorf were pivotal in securing the Cup Winners’ Cup trophy. Similarly, John Hewitt’s extra-time winner for Aberdeen against Real Madrid in 1983 remains one of the most iconic moments in European football history.

In the Europa League, Radamel Falcao’s performances during the 2011 and 2012 campaigns stand out. His hat-trick in Atlético Madrid’s 2012 semi-final and two goals in the final were perfect examples of a striker at the peak of his powers.

In 2019, Eden Hazard gave a farewell performance for Chelsea that fans will never forget. His two goals and one assist in the Europa League final against Arsenal were a fitting end to his time at Stamford Bridge.

The Best Formation Ever: The Dream 4-3-3

Crafting the ultimate XI from the Cup Winners’ Cup and Europa League history requires balancing the brilliance of players from two distinct eras. Here’s a 4-3-3 that represents the best of both competitions:

Goalkeeper: Jim Leighton – Aberdeen’s hero in the 1983 final, his saves against Real Madrid were crucial in delivering one of the greatest underdog victories in the tournament’s history.

Right-Back: Dani Alves – A two-time Europa League winner with Sevilla, Alves brought energy, creativity, and defensive solidity to the competition.

Centre-Backs: Ronald Koeman and Diego Godín – Koeman’s ability to score crucial goals from defense made him a standout for Barcelona in the Cup Winners’ Cup. Godín, with Atlético Madrid, was a rock-solid presence and a leader in multiple Europa League triumphs.

Left-Back: Giuseppe Bergomi – His consistent performances for Inter Milan in European competitions epitomized defensive excellence.

Midfielders: Oleg Blokhin, Éver Banega, and Johan Neeskens – Blokhin’s attacking contributions and Neeskens’ dynamism combined with Banega’s creativity form a perfect midfield trio.

Forwards: Radamel Falcao, Hans Krankl, and Eden Hazard – Falcao’s clinical finishing, Krankl’s decisive goals, and Hazard’s flair and ability to turn matches single-handedly create a fearsome attacking line.

A Legacy That Continues

From the glory days of the Cup Winners’ Cup to the modern Europa League, these tournaments have showcased the essence of European football. They’ve given underdogs a chance to shine, provided a stage for great players to build their legacies, and created unforgettable moments that live in the hearts of fans. For collectors and fans alike, memorabilia from these competitions serves as a tribute to their enduring magic. Explore exclusive items celebrating this rich history at Walkouts.