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Category: Super Cup

  • Super Cup 2025 : FC Goa Eye Successive Wins Against Inter Kashi

    Super Cup 2025 : FC Goa Eye Successive Wins Against Inter Kashi

    Reigning Super Cup champions FC Goa will look to build on their impressive start to the tournament when they face Inter Kashi at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Fatorda on Wednesday, October 29, 2025. The match kicks off at 7:30 PM IST.

    The Gaurs opened their title defence with a confident win over Jamshedpur FC, the very team they defeated in last season’s final, setting the tone for another strong campaign. Head coach Manolo Marquez will now aim to guide his side to back-to-back victories and move a step closer to the knockout stages.

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    Newly promoted ISL side Inter Kashi, the I-League 2024–25 champions, showed their mettle in their opening fixture, holding NorthEast United FC to a spirited draw. Despite being newcomers to the top tier, the Kashi-based outfit demonstrated organization, energy, and resilience — qualities that could trouble any opponent, including the defending champions.

    For FC Goa, this fixture is another opportunity to make home advantage count. With Fatorda once again hosting the action, the Gaurs are expected to rely on their trademark possession-based football, high pressing, and attacking creativity to break down a confident Inter Kashi side.

    With the group stage schedule packed and qualification spots at a premium, a second straight win would not only cement FC Goa’s control over Group B but also ease their path toward another deep run in the competition.

  • Dempo Stuns Again, Adds Pressure on Mohun Bagan Ahead of Derby!

    Dempo Stuns Again, Adds Pressure on Mohun Bagan Ahead of Derby!

    After East Bengal, Dempo has now held Mohun Bagan to a draw. In Tuesday’s Super Cup match between Mohun Bagan and Dempo, the game ended 0-0. From the start to the final whistle, Dempo maintained an unbreakable defensive line, effectively neutralizing Mohun Bagan’s attacks.

    Mohun Bagan coach José Molina fielded a full arsenal of attacking players. Cummings, McLaren, Robson, and Petratos were all deployed to use their team’s full strength, yet they could not breach the resilient Indian side’s defense. Although Mohun Bagan controlled possession for most of the match, their players failed to create clear chances in the final third. After repeated crosses from the wings, Dempo’s defenders consistently blocked attempts inside the box.

    Dempo’s goalkeeper and defenders fought with determination. Even when Mohun Bagan managed to create opportunities, players like Ashish Rai and Cummings failed to beat the goalkeeper. Had Monvir not missed a key chance, the result might have gone in Mohun Bagan’s favor. Robson and Dimirao also squandered some opportunities, which proved crucial in keeping the score level.

    Dempo’s draw is not only surprising for Mohun Bagan but also for football fans in Kolkata. Nine years ago, Dempo had stepped away from the mainstream of Indian football. As a five-time champion of India’s top clubs, their comeback journey has been long and challenging. Since returning to the I-League, they have gradually strengthened their position. In this Super Cup match, by holding both Kolkata giants—Mohun Bagan and East Bengal—Dempo has reasserted their presence in Indian football.

    On paper, Mohun Bagan dominated. In the game, they had the majority of possession, but dominance remained largely superficial. On the field, it was evident that a well-thought-out defense can be far more effective than mere dominance. Dempo’s steadfast defense, timely blocks, and quick countermeasures thwarted the green-and-maroon’s attacks.

    This result adds more pressure on Mohun Bagan ahead of the derby. Critics believe that if this attacking team continues to fail to capitalize on chances in the final third, they could face a major challenge in the upcoming derby.

  • Mohun Bagan Stuck by Dempo’s Solid Defense! First Half Ends Goalless

    Mohun Bagan Stuck by Dempo’s Solid Defense! First Half Ends Goalless

    In the second match of the Super Cup group stage, Mohun Bagan started strongly but ultimately failed to score against the resilient Dempo Sports Club. Tuesday afternoon’s first half ended with a goalless 0-0 scoreline.

    As the home team, the Bagan brigade had already defeated Chennaiyin FC, led by Clifford Miranda, in their first group match. That win gave them three points and the top spot in the group. However, in the second match against Dempo SC, the team was not in an entirely comfortable position. In particular, coach Jose Molina’s tactical changes did not have the desired impact in the first half.

    In the opening minutes, it was Dempo who showed attacking intent. Within 5 minutes, Vinay’s long-range shot indicated the team’s clear offensive plan. At the 8th minute, Mohun Bagan enjoyed their first set-piece, but Dempo’s defense coordinated well to deny them.

    Although Mohun Bagan dominated possession for most of the half, Dempo’s compact defense prevented any clear chances. At the 16th minute, the team tried to attack in a 4-4-2 formation, yet Dempo remained solid and did not allow any clear opportunities.

    By the 22nd minute, Dempo’s tactical awareness was evident. They were extremely cautious in handling Mohun Bagan’s pressure. In the 24th minute, Petratos’ long-range shot was blocked, and Cummings’ rebound attempt was also stopped by defenders.

    At the 27th minute, Dipendu’s tough challenge created a controversial moment, but he was only cautioned. By the 30th minute, the situation became more complicated as East Bengal, in the same group, reached four points at the top. Mohun Bagan needed a win to reclaim the top spot.

    At the 34th minute, Dimitri Petratos’ long-range shot missed the target, and at the 36th minute, Ashish Rai’s header went straight into the goalkeeper’s hands. This was the best chance of the first half. At the 40th minute, a cross from the flank was easily cleared by Dempo’s defense. Towards the end of the half, Robson and Cummings earned a corner, but no goal came from it.

    The first half showcased Dempo’s strategic solidity and attacking awareness, successfully frustrating Mohun Bagan’s aggression.

    In the second half, Mohun Bagan players will need to employ new tactics and fast-paced attacks if they want to realize their dream of reaching the semifinals. Whether Dempo can maintain their confidence and defensive strength remains the big question now.

  • Several Star Players Missing Against Dempo! Who Makes the Starting XI?

    Several Star Players Missing Against Dempo! Who Makes the Starting XI?

    Despite a shaky start to the season, Mohun Bagan Super Giant have gradually found their rhythm. After a disappointing Durand Cup campaign, the Green-and-Maroon brigade bounced back strongly to achieve glory in the historic IFA Shield.

    In the group stage, Mohun Bagan defeated strong teams like Gokulam Kerala FC and United Sports Club to reach the final, where they faced arch-rivals East Bengal. After a goalless draw in regulation time, the match was decided by a thrilling penalty shoot-out — and it was Mohun Bagan who had the last laugh. That victory brought the IFA Shield back to the club after nearly 22 long years, sparking joy among fans.

    Now, the Mariners are determined to carry that winning momentum into the Super Cup, with eyes firmly set on the trophy. In their first match, Jason Cummings and his teammates registered a crucial victory over Clifford Miranda’s Chennaiyin FC, earning three valuable points and taking the top spot in their group.

    On Tuesday evening, they face Dempo SC in their second group-stage encounter. During their recent training session in Goa, the mood in the Bagan camp appeared upbeat and confident.

    However, head coach Jose Molina wasn’t entirely pleased with the training facilities. Speaking to the media, he said:

    “The weather is not in our control, but the condition of the training ground is terrible. It’s hard to practice here. Still, I don’t want to make excuses — the boys will give their best.”

    Indeed, concerns over the condition of the grounds and surrounding infrastructure have been a recurring issue since the start of the Super Cup. Any moment of negligence could lead to serious injuries, which has naturally frustrated players and coaches alike.

    Despite the challenges and the absence of a few key stars due to injuries and rotation, the Mariners are ready for the battle against Dempo.

    Mohun Bagan Super Giant’s Playing XI (Super Cup 2025):

  • East Bengal star palying XI against Chennaiyin in Super Cup

    East Bengal star palying XI against Chennaiyin in Super Cup

    East Bengal Football Club is looking to bounce back as they gear up for their next Super Cup match against Chennaiyin FC. The club’s start to the tournament has been far from ideal, with a disappointing draw against the comparatively weaker Dempo Sports Club in their opening match. The result left fans frustrated, as East Bengal struggled in the first half, missing multiple goal-scoring opportunities and displaying disjointed gameplay on the field.

    Dempo, on the other hand, capitalized on their chances and managed to take the lead in the first half. However, East Bengal responded strongly in the second half, leveling the score early on. The highlight came when Miguel Figuera scored a world-class goal to put the Masal Brigade ahead. Yet, the lead was short-lived, as Dempo equalized toward the end of the match, forcing East Bengal to share points. The outcome was a bitter pill for the club and its supporters, highlighting the challenges that lie ahead in the tournament.

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    With the disappointment of the opening match behind them, East Bengal now turns their focus to a crucial clash against Chennaiyin FC at the Bambolim Stadium in Goa. The team is determined to secure their first win and restore confidence among the fans. Coach Sourav Chakraborty has announced the starting eleven for the game, signaling the club’s intent to perform at their best.

    In goal, Prabhsukhan Singh Gill will be tasked with keeping Chennaiyin at bay, while the defense will rely on Anwar Ali, Mohammad Rakip, Kevin Sibille, and Joy Gupta. The midfield trio of Saúl Crespo, Mohammad Rashid, and Miguel Figuera is expected to orchestrate the team’s attacking and defensive transitions. On the wings, Naorem Mahesh Singh and Bipin Singh will provide width and pace, while forward Hamid Ahad leads the line in search of goals.

    The bench will see players like Hiroshi Ibusuki, Edmund Lalrindika, Nandkumar Sekar, and Sourav Chakraborty ready to step in if required. Their presence adds depth to the squad, giving the coach tactical flexibility depending on the match situation.

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    East Bengal faces a tough challenge against a strong Chennaiyin side led by Clifford Miranda. A win in this match is not only vital for advancing in the Super Cup but also crucial for regaining momentum after a slow start. Both the team and fans hope that the lessons from the draw against Dempo will translate into a more cohesive and determined performance on the field.

    As kickoff approaches, all eyes will be on the Masal Brigade to see whether they can turn their fortunes around and secure a victory against Chennaiyin FC. For East Bengal, the task is difficult but achievable, provided they execute their strategies effectively and capitalize on their attacking opportunities.

  • Kerala Blasters Midfielder Mohammed Azhar Eyes Super Cup Glory for AFC Champions League Two Spot

    Kerala Blasters Midfielder Mohammed Azhar Eyes Super Cup Glory for AFC Champions League Two Spot

    Mohammed Azhar, the 22-year-old central midfielder for Kerala Blasters FC, has voiced his team’s determination to win the AIFF Super Cup 2025 to secure a coveted playoff berth in the 2025-26 AFC Champions League Two (ACL2). In an exclusive interview with a leading sports outlet on October 28, 2025, Azhar stated: “Our goal is to win the Super Cup and claim that AFC spot. That’s what we want to achieve.” The young star, who has been a squad regular under new coach David Catalán, emphasized the tournament’s importance as a redemption arc following a challenging 2024-25 season.

    Kerala Blasters’ Rocky Road: From Stahre’s Exit to Catalán’s Arrival
    Kerala Blasters handed the reins to Swedish coach Mikael Stahre ahead of the 2024-25 ISL season, signing high-profile players like Noah Sadaoui and Kwame Peprah. However, results were dismal: a group-stage exit in the Durand Cup and a mid-table ISL finish (8th place with 26 points from 22 games). Stahre and his support staff were sacked in December 2024 after just 12 ISL matches (3 wins, 7 losses), with interim coaches Tomasz Tchorz and T.G. Purushothaman stabilizing the ship to end the league on a high note.

    Catalán, appointed in early 2025, inherited a squad blending youth (like Azhar and his twin brother Mohammed Aimen) with veterans (Adrián Luna, Hormipam Ruivah). Despite beating East Bengal 2-1 in the Kaling Super Cup opener, Kerala suffered a humiliating 0-4 loss to Mohun Bagan Super Giant in the quarterfinals, exiting via the reserves’ bench. Azhar, who featured in 16 ISL games last season (2 goals, 1 assist), reflected: “Last season taught us resilience. Now, with Catalán’s tactics, we’re sharper.”

    Super Cup Ambitions: Path to AFC Glory
    The Super Cup, starting October 30, 2025, in Goa, offers Kerala a direct ACL2 playoff ticket to the winners—crucial for continental exposure and potential revenue. Grouped with Rajasthan United (Oct 30), Mumbai City FC (Nov 3), and Punjab FC (Nov 6), Catalán’s side eyes a top-two finish. Azhar, a Kerala Blasters academy product since 2018, debuted in the 2023 Durand Cup and scored his senior goal in a 7-0 rout of CISF Protectors. Part of the 27-man squad announced on October 25, he added: “Winning here isn’t just about silverware—it’s our gateway to Asia. The fans deserve that dream.”

    Kerala’s revamped roster includes:
    Goalkeepers: Sachin Suresh, Kamaljit Singh, Alsabith S.T., Muhammad Jaseen M.
    Defenders: Hormipam Ruivah, Bikash Yumnam, Milos Drinčić, Dušan Lagator, Naocha Singh, Aibanbha Dohling, Muhammed Saheef, Sandeep Singh.

    Midfielders: Vibin Mohanan, Danish Farooq, Freddy Lallawmawma, Adrián Luna, Mohammed Azhar, Yoihenba Meitei, Ebindas Yesudasan, Korou Singh, Mohammed Aimen, Renthlei Lalthanmawia.

    Forwards: Kwame Peprah, Jesús Jiménez, Noah Sadaoui, Sreekuttan M.S., Ishan Pandita.
    With ACL2 playoffs offering group-stage entry against Asian powerhouses, Azhar’s vision aligns with the club’s “Manjappada” ethos. Matches stream live on FanCode and Star Sports. Can Kerala conquer the Super Cup and unlock Asia? Azhar believes so—watch this space.

  • Mohun Bagan Eyes Semifinal Spot, East Bengal Seeks Momentum Before Kolkata Derby

    Mohun Bagan Eyes Semifinal Spot, East Bengal Seeks Momentum Before Kolkata Derby

    Indian football’s oldest rivalry is inching closer, but before the Kolkata Derby takes center stage, both Mohun Bagan Super Giant and East Bengal have crucial hurdles to clear in the ongoing 2025–26 AIFF Super Cup. With the group stage nearing its climax, Bagan will look to seal an early semifinal spot, while East Bengal will aim to regain its footing and build momentum ahead of the marquee clash on October 31.

    Mohun Bagan Eyes Smooth Sail After Early-Season Turbulence

    Indian Super League (ISL) champion Mohun Bagan Super Giant began the new season under pressure after a rocky few months. The Mariners were knocked out by East Bengal in the Durand Cup and later withdrew from the AFC Champions League 2 — decisions that led to widespread protests from their fan base. However, the storm seems to have settled. Under Spanish coach Jose Molina, Bagan rediscovered form, lifting the IFA Shield in October and opening its Super Cup campaign with a comfortable 2-0 victory over Chennaiyin FC.

    Now, the Mariners face Dempo SC in their next Group A fixture at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Goa on Tuesday. A win will all but secure their place in the semifinals — provided East Bengal or Chennaiyin drop points in the earlier match at Bambolim.

    Bagan’s squad depth remains one of its biggest strengths. Australian forwards Jason Cummings and Jamie Maclaren, both World Cup participants, have already made their mark, with Cummings netting both goals against Chennaiyin. Molina, however, faces a tactical dilemma — whether to continue with both strikers or deploy Brazilian playmaker Robson Robinho in a creative midfield role behind a lone forward. With Indian wingers Manvir Singh and Liston Colaco offering pace and width, the Mariners will look to maintain their attacking rhythm against a disciplined Dempo side.

    Dempo Aims to Keep Rising After I-League Return

    Dempo SC, a three-time national champion, stunned defending Super Cup champion East Bengal with a 2-2 draw in its tournament opener. Once a powerhouse in Indian football, Dempo had faded from the top flight after withdrawing from the I-League in 2016. Their recent promotion back to the league has revived hopes among Goan fans of a return to glory.

    Under club legend and head coach Samir Naik, the Golden Eagles are determined to show they can still compete with India’s elite. The last meeting between senior sides of Bagan and Dempo in Goa ended 1-1 — a result that eventually brought an end to Arthur Papas’s tenure as Dempo coach. This time, Naik’s men will aim for a more memorable outcome, one that could keep their semifinal dreams alive and further shake up Group A.

    East Bengal Seeks Redemption and Consistency

    For East Bengal, the Super Cup campaign has been a story of promise marred by inconsistency. Under Oscar Bruzon, the Red-and-Gold Brigade reached the semifinals of the Durand Cup and the final of the IFA Shield, but both campaigns ended in heartbreak — a loss to lower-division side Diamond Harbour in the Durand semis and a penalty defeat to Bagan in the Shield final.

    Conceding late goals has been a recurring problem. Dempo’s 89th-minute equalizer in the Super Cup opener once again exposed the team’s defensive frailty and mental lapses. To make matters worse, internal unrest has surfaced, with goalkeeping coach Sandip Nandy resigning after the IFA Shield defeat, reportedly due to dressing-room tensions.

    Bruzon, however, remains optimistic. His first away victory as East Bengal coach in the ISL came against Chennaiyin — the same opponent his team will face next. A win will keep East Bengal’s semifinal hopes alive and set up a high-voltage derby where both sides could be battling for survival.

    Chennaiyin Looks to Rekindle Spirit Under Clifford Miranda

    Chennaiyin FC, fielding an all-Indian squad this season, has struggled for cohesion but remains eager to prove its mettle under coach Clifford Miranda. The former Odisha FC boss guided his side to its first-ever Super Cup title two years ago and will hope to recreate that success on Goan soil.

    As Group A tightens, every point matters. For Bagan, a win against Dempo could mean smooth passage to the semifinals; for East Bengal, it’s about survival and revival before the grand Kolkata Derby. The next few days promise high drama, tactical battles, and the kind of passion that defines Indian football’s fiercest rivalry.

  • Mohun Bagan SG begin Super Cup 2025 campaign without star forward

    Mohun Bagan SG begin Super Cup 2025 campaign without star forward

    Fresh from their IFA Shield triumph, Mohun Bagan SG head into the Super Cup 2025 with renewed confidence. On Saturday they face Chennaiyin FC at the Fatorda Stadium in Goa. Coach José Molina has made a surprising choice: fan-favourite forward Dimitri Petratos is not in the starting eleven. Also omitted from the list of changeable substitutes are Jason Cummings and Robson Robinho — both fit, but not selected.

    In recent seasons Mohun Bagan have stamped themselves among Indian football’s elite — ISL champions, Durand Cup winners and Shield holders. But the Super Cup title still eludes them. For coach Molina, a Spaniard with significant experience, the tournament carries extra importance. In a virtual pre-match press conference he commented: “Our start to the season wasn’t ideal. Yet the IFA Shield win has boosted the squad’s confidence. We are ready for the Super Cup.”

    There had been questions over fitness levels following a disappointing Durand Cup campaign. “To reach full fitness you need more matches; in Indian football those opportunities are limited. The IFA Shield’s back-to-back games have helped improve fitness. And most importantly, no one in the squad is injured now — everyone is healthy and prepared,” said Molina.

    Their opponents Chennaiyin enter the match without any foreign players, but Molina refuses to underestimate them, “Chennaiyin are a good side. Every match is tough, no win comes easy. We must fight to earn it.” With that mindset, Mohun Bagan have sprung a wide-ranging surprise by naming a first eleven featuring multiple changes ahead of the Chennaiyin clash.

    Mohun Bagan SG kick off their Super Cup 2025 campaign at Fatorda Stadium against Chennaiyin FC. Star forward Dimitri Petratos is omitted from the starting XI under coach José Molina’s surprise selection.

    Mohun Bagan SG

    Mohun Bagan SG, Super Cup 2025, Chennaiyin FC, Indian football, José Molina, Dimitri Petratos, Jason Cummings, Robson Robinho, Fatorda Stadium

  • East Bengal Exude Confidence Ahead of AIFF Super Cup 2025

    East Bengal Exude Confidence Ahead of AIFF Super Cup 2025

    Goa, October 23: East Bengal FC are heading into the AIFF Super Cup 2025 with renewed confidence and determination, as reflected in the words of their head coach Óscar Bruzón and senior midfielder Souvik Chakrabarti.

    Speaking at the pre-tournament press conference, head coach Bruzón said there was a clear sense of belief within the camp:

    “There is a palpable mood of confidence in the camp. The team is fiercely determined and confident to deliver positive performances in the Super Cup. We showed a good brand of football in the Durand Cup and the IFA Shield, considering we have many new players in the squad and that team cohesion had to be settled. Now we are united in our pursuit of on-field excellence, and eager to prove that we are capable of competing neck and neck with the best Indian clubs again.”

    The Spaniard’s comments reflect East Bengal’s intent to establish themselves as serious contenders after showing signs of promise in recent competitions.

    Souvik Chakrabarti: “Fully focused on Dempo clash”

    Echoing his coach’s words, East Bengal’s experienced midfielder Souvik Chakrabarti underlined the team’s readiness and focus:

    “We are fully prepared for the Super Cup. We have shown gradual progress from the Durand Cup to the IFA Shield. Everyone in the team is fully focused on the first match against Dempo.”

    The emphasis on steady progress suggests the Red and Gold brigade are eyeing consistency, something they have struggled with in previous seasons.

    Aiming for Glory

    The AIFF Super Cup presents East Bengal with a golden opportunity to measure themselves against the top clubs in India. With a blend of new signings and experienced campaigners, the squad appears motivated to rekindle the club’s glorious past and give fans reasons to cheer.

    The Road Ahead

    As the tournament kicks off in Goa, all eyes will be on East Bengal’s opening fixture against Dempo. With confidence soaring in the camp, the Kolkata giants aim to back their words with performances on the pitch.