The race for a place in the AIFF Super Cup 2025 final reaches boiling point on Thursday, December 4, 2025, with a high-stakes double-header in Fatorda, Goa. East Bengal FC face Punjab FC in the first semi-final at 16:00 IST, followed by defending champions FC Goa taking on Mumbai City FC at 20:00 IST at the PJN Stadium. Both matches will be broadcast on Star Sports Khel and streamed live on JioHotstar.
FC Goa vs Mumbai City FC (20:00 IST)
The second semi-final brings together two teams with contrasting momentum but identical ambitions. Mumbai City FC arrive after a long training block without competitive fixtures, while FC Goa come into the game battle-hardened from their AFC Champions League Two campaign. Beyond a spot in the final, both teams are fighting for a route back to continental football.
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Head coach Petr Kratky expressed confidence in his squad’s preparation:
“I’m very happy with the work we’ve done over the last few weeks. Goa are a very good team and in full rhythm because of the ACL Two, but we’ve prepared as best as possible.”
This is Mumbai City’s third consecutive Super Cup semi-final, and midfielder Brandon Fernandes is targeting his first-ever final with the club.
“It’s a massive semi-final for us. We want to reach the final and return to AFC competition — that’s our motivation.”
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Kratky emphasized Mumbai City’s attacking identity:
“We want to play aggressive, attacking football — the style Mumbai is known for. We are building an environment where every player is ready and important. What matters is heart, character, and commitment.”
Facing his former team, Fernandes added:
“The past is the past. Tomorrow is about the present. Goa is my former club, but my focus is on helping Mumbai win.”
FC Goa: Battle-Hardened but Weary
FC Goa head coach Manolo Márquez acknowledged that his squad is navigating a unique situation:
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“We are training more and playing more because of the AFC Champions League Two, but the long gaps between matches make it mentally demanding. Still, strong matches are better preparation than training alone.”
Defender Ronney Wilson Kharbudon, who made his debut against Al Nassr earlier this season, echoed his coach’s sentiments:
“Playing such matches helps every player improve. Training has been good since we returned from Iraq. We’re focused and want to reach the final.”
A Fixture Known for Goals
Whenever FC Goa and Mumbai City FC meet, entertainment is guaranteed — 16 goals in their last five meetings. Mumbai City enjoyed a 10-game unbeaten run against Goa before the Gaurs ended it with a 3–1 win in Mumbai last February.
Márquez expects another high-quality encounter:
“Every competition is different. Mumbai City are one of the biggest teams in the ISL, with strong foreigners and national team players. Both teams like attacking, possession football. It should be a good match, but in football, you never know.”