The defending champions were Cliftonville, after they had won the cup for the 8th time the previous season, defeating Portadown 3–2 in the 1978–79 final.

[1] However, Portadown gained revenge by knocking the holders out in the first round with a 2–1 win.

Linfield won the cup for the 32nd time, defeating Crusaders 2–0 in the final.

[2] 1This tie required a replay, after the first game ended as a 1–1 draw.

[2] 3This tie required a replay, after the first game ended as a 0–0 draw at Glenavon.