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  • Super Cup 2025 Final Preview: Unbeaten East Bengal FC Eye Return to Glory Against Defending Champions FC Goa

    Super Cup 2025 Final Preview: Unbeaten East Bengal FC Eye Return to Glory Against Defending Champions FC Goa

    The stage is set for a thrilling finale to the AIFF Super Cup 2025, as East Bengal FC prepare to face defending champions FC Goa in the title clash at the PJN Stadium in Fatorda (Kickoff: 7:30 PM).

    With a coveted spot in the 2026–27 AFC competitions on the line, the winners of the last two editions—East Bengal FC in 2024 and FC Goa in 2025—are determined to reclaim the Super Cup crown and become the first Indian club this season to secure continental qualification.

    Under Spanish head coach Óscar Bruzón, East Bengal have shown steady improvement as the tournament progressed. After a nervy 2–2 opening draw against Dempo SC, they bounced back emphatically with a commanding 4–0 victory over Chennaiyin FC. A composed 0–0 draw against arch-rivals Mohun Bagan SG, in a match they largely controlled, ensured the Red & Golds topped Group A and advanced to the semifinals.

    In the first semifinal, East Bengal defeated Punjab FC 3–1 with goals from Mohammed Rashid, Kevin Sibille, and captain Saul Crespo, securing their place in the Super Cup final for the third time after appearances in 2018 and 2024.

    Unbeaten so far, the Kolkata giants have scored nine goals—more than any other team in the competition. However, they will be without head coach Bruzón on the touchline for the final after he received two yellow cards and was sent off just before halftime in the semifinal.

    Manolo Márquez’s FC Goa, meanwhile, are striving to become the first club to successfully defend the Super Cup and clinch their third title, having previously won in 2019 and 2025.

    The Gaurs progressed from Group B with wins over Jamshedpur FC (2–0) and Inter Kashi (3–0), despite a setback against NorthEast United FC (1–2). They then edged Mumbai City FC 2–1 in the second semifinal, courtesy of quickfire first-half goals from Brison Fernandes and David Timor.

    At the pre-match press conference, East Bengal assistant coach Bino George stated:
    “East Bengal never enter a tournament just to participate. We always compete to win. FC Goa are the defending champions and we respect them, but we have prepared rigorously for this day and will give everything to bring the trophy back to Kolkata.”

    Captain Saul Crespo added:
    “Our preparations have been excellent and the team bonding is visible to everyone. We have one last hurdle ahead of us, and we will give our all to execute our game plan to perfection.”

    The match will be streamed live on JioHotstar and broadcast on Star Sports Khel.

  • East Bengal Storm Into Super Cup Final With Commanding 3–1 Win Over Punjab FC

    East Bengal Storm Into Super Cup Final With Commanding 3–1 Win Over Punjab FC

    East Bengal booked their place in the AIFF Super Cup final for the third time with a composed and clinical 3–1 victory over Punjab FC at the PJN Stadium in Fatorda, Goa, on Thursday, December 4, 2025. The triumph also marks the club’s second major final of the season, following their narrow loss to Mohun Bagan SG in the IFA Shield.

    The Kolkata giants started brightly and took the lead in the 12th minute through Mohamad Bashim Rashid. A rehearsed short-corner routine saw Miguel Ferreira’s delivery only partially cleared, and the ball fell invitingly to Rashid at the edge of the area. The Maldivian midfielder controlled superbly before drilling a low shot that slipped under goalkeeper Muheet Shabir’s glove—his first goal for the club.

    Punjab FC responded with urgency and were rewarded in the 34th minute. A mishap in the East Bengal box saw Ricky Shabong’s clearing header rebound off Bipin Singh’s arm, prompting the referee to award a penalty. Daniel Ramirez converted confidently, sending Prabhsukhan Singh Gill the wrong way to level the score.

    But East Bengal regained control at a crucial moment, striking just before the interval. Deep into first-half stoppage time, Miguel Ferreira delivered another pinpoint corner, and defender Kevin Sibille rose highest to nod home a powerful header. The goal sparked jubilant celebrations, which also saw head coach Oscar Bruzon receive a second yellow card for overexuberance.

    After the break, East Bengal tightened their grip on the contest. Bipin Singh and Hiroshi Ibusuki both came close to extending the lead, but it was captain Saul Crespo who delivered the decisive blow in the 71st minute. Once again, Ferreira was the architect—slaloming past multiple defenders before laying the ball off for Crespo, who placed a tidy left-footed finish into the bottom corner.

    Punjab FC struggled to break down East Bengal’s disciplined defensive structure in the closing stages. Their best late opportunity came when Ramirez threaded a pass to Bede Amarachi Osuji, but the Nigerian forward’s effort was comfortably saved by Gill.

    East Bengal nearly added further gloss to the scoreline when Ferreira danced past defenders again, only to fire narrowly wide. Nevertheless, the Red and Gold brigade held firm until the final whistle, celebrating a well-earned spot in yet another major final.

    With momentum and confidence on their side, Oscar Bruzon’s men now turn their focus to lifting the coveted AIFF Super Cup trophy.

  • Will Joy Gupta Play Super Cup 2025 Semifinal?

    Will Joy Gupta Play Super Cup 2025 Semifinal?

    Super Cup 2025 semifinal is just a night away. In Goa, East Bengal is set to face Panagiotis Dilmpers’ strong Punjab FC. Notably, last month Punjab secured their semifinal spot by defeating the mighty Bengaluru FC in their final group-stage match. In the tie-breaker, this ISL side got the better of Sunil Chhetri’s team. So Oscar Bruzón knew well in advance that this clash would be anything but easy. That is why, right after a short break, the East Bengal coach resumed training in full swing.

    Initially, Bino George supervised the training sessions, but soon after arriving in the city, the Spanish coach took full charge. After weeks of preparation in Kolkata, the Red and Gold brigade finally arrived in Goa. However, in the midst of all this, one of the team’s most reliable defenders, Joy Gupta, suffered an injury. This undoubtedly sparked concern within the camp. As a result, over the past few days, the Indian defender has mainly been working on his fitness from the sidelines. If he is unavailable for the upcoming semifinal, it could significantly impact the team’s performance.

    There is no need to state that again. Still, the management’s top priority was to get him fully fit before the match. According to the latest update, during the final training session on the eve of the semifinal, the national team defender was seen practicing with the main squad in high spirits. This clearly indicates that he is much fitter than before. However, whether Oscar will include him in the starting XI remains the big question, and everyone’s attention will be on that decision.

    On the other hand, Dilmpers’ Punjab FC is determined to beat East Bengal and secure their place in the final. After completing preparations in their home city, the opposition camp arrived in Goa a few days ago. The Greek coach has prepared the team keeping East Bengal’s strengths and weaknesses in mind.

  • East Bengal coach Oscar Bruzon Weighs Defensive Options Ahead of Semifinal

    East Bengal coach Oscar Bruzon Weighs Defensive Options Ahead of Semifinal

    East Bengal Football Club did not have a great start to this year’s Super Cup. In their very first group-stage match, they were held to a draw by a comparatively weaker Dempo Sports Club. Sameer Naik’s boys put up an exceptional fight against the Red and Golds, surprising everyone. Because of that early setback, the Kolkata giants fell slightly behind in the group standings. However, after defeating Clifford Miranda’s Chennaiyin FC by a big margin in the second match, the Torch Brigade revived their chances of qualifying for the knockouts. In the final group game, they had to face their arch-rivals, Mohun Bagan Super Giant.

    Although that match ended in a draw after full time, East Bengal advanced to the semifinals thanks to goal difference. Naturally, supporters were quite pleased. After a long break, the semifinals are finally scheduled to be held tomorrow, where Oscar Bruzón’s side will face Panagiotis Dilmpeleris’ Punjab FC. Punjab had already stunned a strong team like Bengaluru FC earlier to secure their semifinal berth, so everyone knows this will be no easy contest.

    That is why players like Miguel Figuera and Anwar Ali had begun intense training weeks in advance. But just a few days before the semifinal, worrying news emerged—reliable defender Joy Gupta picked up an injury during practice. He was seen mostly on the sidelines afterward. Oscar is fully aware of how much Joy’s absence in such a crucial match could benefit the opposition, so he had already begun preparing alternative plans.

    According to various reports, if Joy Gupta is unable to play this match, Oscar Bruzón may turn to another Indian defender, Lalchungnunga, as his replacement. Additionally, Bengali footballer Prabhat Lakra is also being considered as an option. However, in Wednesday’s training session ahead of the semifinal, Joy Gupta looked quite lively. If everything goes well, East Bengal’s head coach might go ahead with his original plan and include him in the starting lineup.

  • In Deep Darkness of ISL, Explosive Statement by Souvik on Social Media!

    In Deep Darkness of ISL, Explosive Statement by Souvik on Social Media!

    The future of India’s top football league, the Indian Super League (ISL), remains uncertain. Although Friday was the last day to submit bids, no organization participated in the tender. As a result, the fate of the ISL now hangs on the federation’s decision.

    গভীর অন্ধকারে ISL, সোশ্যাল মিডিয়ায় ‘বিস্ফোরক’ লাল-হলুদ সৌভিক!

     

    According to an earlier announcement, the deadline for bid submission was set for November 5. However, following requests from multiple organizations, the federation’s tender committee extended the deadline to November 7. Many had hoped that FSDA or another organization might submit a bid, but with no activity on Friday either, widespread concern emerged. Consequently, there is now significant uncertainty about whether the Indian Super League will take place this year.

    In this situation, one of the country’s strongest football clubs, Mohun Bagan Super Giant, has decided to suspend team training indefinitely. Meanwhile, East Bengal’s president Debashish Dutta and secretary Srijanjoy Basu expressed their frustration over the ISL. The pressing question now is: will the ISL happen, and if so, when? Experts believe that if no organization takes responsibility by the end of November, it will be nearly impossible to start the league before late January or February. The federation’s next decision will determine the fate of India’s biggest football league.

    In the midst of this issue, East Bengal player and Bengali footballer Souvik Chakraborty shared his views on social media. He wrote: “The failure of the ISL bid is not just a business failure. For me, it reflects the deep-rooted problems in Indian football administration. This is not just about a league. When the top tier of Indian football is uncertain, it impacts everyone—from grassroots children to the national level. Behind every club and match are players, coaches, support staff, countless fans, and those who work quietly off the field to keep the game alive. Their dedicated efforts deserve clear direction, accountability, and faith in the system that asks them to give their all.

    What we need now is transparency, planning, and unity. Every participant, from players and professionals to fans and those working inside and outside the field, deserves a framework that values their love for the game and helps move football forward. I truly hope this issue is resolved as soon as possible—not just for the top level, but for the future of Indian football. For the love of Indian football.”

  • Sports Minister Announces ‘Big’ News About Calcutta League During Visit to Hockey Stadium

    Sports Minister Announces ‘Big’ News About Calcutta League During Visit to Hockey Stadium

    The newly built Vivekananda Hockey Stadium was officially inaugurated on Thursday from the stage of the International Film Festival. On Friday, West Bengal Sports Minister Aroop Biswas visited the state-of-the-art facility. During his visit, he not only inspected the new venue but also took up a hockey stick and hit a few shots himself. Along with reviewing the stadium, he shared some good news for football fans regarding the Calcutta Football League.

    হকি স্টেডিয়াম পরিদর্শনে এসে কলকাতা লিগ নিয়ে ‘বিরাট’ সুখবর দিলেন ক্রীড়ামন্ত্রী

     

    Built under the initiative of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, the stadium features international-standard synthetic turf. It also includes an Australian-style modern Arden gallery, dedicated warm-up zone, two fully equipped dressing rooms, VIP and VVIP boxes, VIP lounge, umpire and video umpire rooms, and several other modern facilities. Additionally, it houses a doping control and medical room, mixed zone, broadcast and video analysis center, venue operations center, and press corner. The stadium was constructed at a cost of around ₹20,000 crore, making it one of the most advanced sports arenas in the state.

    After touring the stadium, Aroop Biswas said, “Under the Chief Minister’s initiative, two hockey grounds have been built in our state — one in Dumurjala and another within the Salt Lake Stadium complex. We also plan to set up a hockey academy in the future. This is one of the best stadiums in the country. I hope that international matches of the Indian team will be held here soon.”

    However, the minister did not shy away from speaking about Bengal’s sports-related discrimination. In a pointed remark, he said, “Matches are not allotted to Bengal due to political reasons. But the more Bengal is deprived, the stronger we will rise.”

    The Beton Cup is set to begin at this very venue on Saturday. This year, hockey tournaments will not use the East Bengal, Mohun Bagan, or Mohammedan grounds. The minister said, “This year, we are organizing hockey tournaments without using the three major clubs’ grounds. Our discussions are ongoing, and our goal is to bring Calcutta football back to the city’s own fields.”

    Aroop Biswas further added, “From the next season, the Calcutta Football League matches will be played in Kolkata grounds itself. The spirit of the game will return from the districts to the heart of the city.”

    With the inauguration of this new hockey stadium, a new chapter has been added to West Bengal’s sports landscape. Through the efforts of the Chief Minister and the Sports Department, this stadium not only represents international sporting infrastructure but also stands as a symbol of Bengal’s sporting renaissance.

  • East Bengal Official Speaks Out Kolkata Football Match-Fixing Scandal

    East Bengal Official Speaks Out Kolkata Football Match-Fixing Scandal

    Once again, Kolkata football circle has been shaken by controversy. To combat match-fixing in the Maidan, Kolkata Police have been taking a series of strong actions. This time, police have arrested Sujay Bhowmik, a close associate of Khidderpore Club official Akash Das. He was taken into custody by Bowbazar Police on Wednesday.

    গড়াপেটার অভিযোগে গ্রেফতার আরও ১, মুখ খুললেন লাল-হলুদ শীর্ষ কর্তা

     

    Sources reveal that last Sunday, police arrested Akash Das in connection with a match-fixing case. During the investigation, Sujay Bhowmik’s name came up. Their close relationship and financial transactions drew the attention of the police. It is alleged that Sujay was involved in fixing several local football matches in Kolkata.

    According to police sources, the accused not only fixed matches in exchange for money but also misused technology in the process. Cases have been filed under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Information Technology Act, and both men were arrested by Belgharia Police. Investigators believe more names could surface as the inquiry continues.

    Officials of the “Big Three” Kolkata clubs have expressed satisfaction over the police action. Mohun Bagan secretary Srinjoy Bose said, “I think these arrests are completely justified. We had also heard about their involvement. The police acted at the right time—this is a good sign for football. The IFA should have increased monitoring earlier.”

    East Bengal official Debabrata Sarkar said, “The first credit goes to the IFA, then to the Sports Minister. He wanted the matter to come to light. The Police Commissioner also deserves thanks. When match-fixing is destroying the integrity of football worldwide, Bengal has shown how to take a stand against it.”

    Police claim the investigation is still in its early stages. In the coming days, several other individuals associated with football organizations may be questioned. The police are determined to uncover the masterminds behind this “invisible game” that threatens the spirit of the sport.

  • “Beating East Bengal…” Molina’s special message to fans ahead Super Cup Kolkata Derby

    “Beating East Bengal…” Molina’s special message to fans ahead Super Cup Kolkata Derby

    Mohun Bagan SG stand on the brink of a ‘do or die’ clash against East Bengal in the Super Cup — a match that will decide their place in the semifinals. After an unexpected draw against Dempo, the Green and Maroon brigade can afford no more mistakes. On the eve of Friday’s mega derby, coach Jose Molina and captain Subhasish Bose appeared confident at the pre-match press conference.

    Coach Molina said, “We are Mohun Bagan. Our supporters always want us to win. We’ll take the field with a winning mindset, not to settle for a draw. Our main goal is to beat East Bengal and bring smiles to our fans’ faces.”

    Despite criticism regarding the team’s failure in front of goal against Dempo, Molina appeared unfazed. He said,

    “Every season has its tough moments. It’s hard to stay at your best without consistent matches. But the boys are working hard. As the level of competition rises, our performance will improve too.”

    Captain Subhasish Bose acknowledged the significance of the derby, saying, “East Bengal are playing more competitive football now. The more derbies we play, the more opportunities we get to evaluate ourselves. For me, this match feels like the Super Cup final. We’re creating chances; we just need to be sharper with our set-pieces. The aim is to convert our chances into goals.”

    Even under rainy conditions in Fatorda, Molina’s men trained with full focus. The coach emphasized, “No matter the situation, we’ll enter the pitch with the mentality to win. We’re not thinking about group positions — our only goal is to win the derby.”

    However, the Spanish coach did express a hint of regret about the empty stands, saying,“It doesn’t feel right when a big match like this is played without spectators. But I know our Mohun Bagan fans will still be behind us, cheering from their homes.”

  • 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.

  • 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.