The defending champions were Linfield who won the cup for the 32nd time the previous season, defeating Crusaders 2–0 in the 1979–80 final.

Ballymena United won the cup for the third time (fourth time if you include Ballymena's record), defeating Glenavon 1–0 in the final.

[2] 1These ties required a replay, after the first games ended as 0–0 draws.

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

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