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  • Kerala Blasters FC Ready to Face Sporting Delhi in Super Cup 2025

    Kerala Blasters FC Ready to Face Sporting Delhi in Super Cup 2025

    Kerala Blasters FC will continue their Super Cup 2025 campaign with their second Group D clash against Sporting Delhi at the GMC Athletic Stadium in Bambolim. The match is scheduled to kick off at 4:30 PM.

    The Blasters began their campaign with a gritty 1–0 victory over Rajasthan United, showing both resilience and composure after a long break from competitive action. They now turn their focus to Sporting Club Delhi, who will be eager to bounce back following a 4–1 loss to Mumbai City in their opening fixture.

    Head Coach David Català on the team’s preparation: “The win against Rajasthan was important, but it’s just the start. We’ve made a good beginning, and now it’s about keeping that same energy and focus. Our players are motivated and have a strong mindset to win this match. Sporting Club Delhi are a young, energetic side with talented players. They’ll be hungry to respond after their first result, so we must stay concentrated, respect their strengths, and impose our style of play from the beginning.”

    Sporting Club Delhi, formerly Hyderabad FC, are adjusting to their new identity and management under head coach Tomasz Tchórz. Despite their opening-day defeat to Mumbai City, they showed glimpses of attacking potential, highlighted by a penalty goal from Andrei Alba.

    Kerala Blasters’ victory over Rajasthan United came through a well-taken goal by Koldo Obieta, assisted perfectly by Juan Rodríguez. The new striker’s goal in his debut match was an encouraging sign, boosting the team’s attacking confidence.

    With momentum on their side, focus renewed, and ambitions high, Kerala Blasters are determined to deliver another strong performance and make a statement against Sporting Club Delhi at Bambolim.

  • Super Cup 2025 : Jamshedpur Come From Behind to Share Points with NorthEast United

    Super Cup 2025 : Jamshedpur Come From Behind to Share Points with NorthEast United

    Jamshedpur FC battled back from a two-goal deficit to earn a thrilling 2-2 draw against NorthEast United FC in their second AIFF Super Cup 2025 Group B match at the GMC Stadium on Wednesday, October 29.

    NorthEast United took control early as Chema Núñez scored in the 20th minute, followed by Alaaeddine Ajaraie’s clinical finish in the 29th minute to give the Highlanders a 2-0 lead. Facing the threat of elimination, Jamshedpur responded before halftime through Pronay Halder’s header in the 43rd minute. Their persistence finally paid off late when Raphael Messi Bouli struck in the 89th minute to secure a hard-fought draw.

    The match, played under rain-soaked conditions, began cautiously but ended in dramatic fashion, leaving both sides frustrated as the result did little to improve their chances of reaching the semi-finals.

    Both teams entered the match under pressure. NorthEast United, with two points from two games, remained second in the group, while Jamshedpur, now on two points, stayed at the bottom. Their semi-final hopes now depend on FC Goa’s later clash with Inter Kashi. A Goa win would put them on six points, a total neither Jamshedpur nor NorthEast United could reach even if they won their remaining group matches.

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    NorthEast United started the game with urgency. Parthib Gogoi’s early shot in the second minute tested Jamshedpur goalkeeper Albino Gomes, signaling the Highlanders’ intent.

    Their pressure paid off in the 20th minute when a long throw into the box caused confusion, and Núñez reacted fastest to a rebound from Jairo Samperio’s effort off the crossbar to open the scoring. Nine minutes later, a brilliant combination between Núñez and Ajaraie created the second goal. Núñez lifted a precise pass over the Jamshedpur defense for Ajaraie, who volleyed in expertly to give NorthEast a commanding 2-0 lead.

    Jamshedpur finally came to life as the first half progressed. The Red Miners pressed forward, controlled the midfield, and earned a goal just before halftime when Halder rose to meet Rei Tachikawa’s corner and headed home to reduce the deficit.

    The second half was tightly contested in the slippery conditions. NorthEast United continued to create chances, but Núñez, Ajaraie, and Andy Rodríguez all failed to convert. Jamshedpur patiently waited for opportunities and pushed hard in the closing stages. In the 85th minute, Pratik Chowdhury’s curling effort rattled the crossbar.

    Four minutes later, Jamshedpur’s perseverance paid off. A long ball from midfield found Raphael Bouli behind the NorthEast defense, and he calmly headed the ball into the far corner to level the match 2-2, ensuring both teams shared the points.

  • Rajasthan United, Kerala Blasters, Bengaluru, Mohammedan Sporting Begin Super Cup Campaigns

    Rajasthan United, Kerala Blasters, Bengaluru, Mohammedan Sporting Begin Super Cup Campaigns

    The AIFF Super Cup 2025 continues in Goa on Thursday, October 30, with action from Groups D and C. Rajasthan United FC face Kerala Blasters FC, while Bengaluru FC meet Mohammedan Sporting.

    The Rajasthan United vs Kerala Blasters clash kicks off at 16:30 IST at the GMC Stadium in Bambolim and will be streamed live on the Indian Football YouTube channel. Later, Bengaluru FC take on Mohammedan Sporting at 19:30 IST at the PJN Stadium in Fatorda, with live coverage on Star Sports Khel and streaming on JioHotstar.

    Rajasthan United Eye Upset Against Kerala Blasters

    Rajasthan United, led once again by head coach Vikrant Sharma, open their campaign against Indian Super League side Kerala Blasters. Sharma, who guided the club to I-League promotion in 2021–22, is optimistic about causing an upset.

    “Kerala Blasters are an experienced ISL team, but once we step on the pitch, it’s 11 versus 11,” said Sharma. “Upsets have happened before — there’s no reason we can’t make it happen again, maybe even go a step further.”

    Goalkeeper Bhabindra Malla Thakuri echoed his coach’s belief:
    “This is a big opportunity for every player to perform on a big stage. We’re fully motivated, focused, and ready to execute our plan.”

    Meanwhile, Kerala Blasters head coach David Català said his side is ready after a month of preparation.
    “The first matches are never easy, but we’ve been training well and want to start strong,” said Català. “Rajasthan are tough to break down — they press high and defend compactly, so we’ll need to stay sharp and play with the right attitude.”

    Midfielder Adrián Luna stressed the importance of a strong start:
    “It’s a short tournament, so getting three points in the first game is crucial. We’ll try to play attacking, vertical football while adapting to the conditions.”

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    Bengaluru FC Face Mohammedan Sporting Test

    In the evening fixture, former champions Bengaluru FC take on Mohammedan Sporting at Fatorda. The fixture brings back memories of last season, when Mohammedan were one of the few teams to beat Bengaluru at home.

    Head coach Gerard Zaragoza said his side will take a more direct approach this time.
    “We want to play faster football — move the ball forward quickly and attack with fewer passes,” said Zaragoza. “Last season we were solid defensively, but needed more creativity and better finishing. That’s been our main focus in pre-season.”

    Goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu added:
    “It feels great to be back in competitive action. We’ve trained well and are focused on finding our rhythm quickly. The goal is to stay fit and improve with every game.”

    Mohammedan Sporting, coached by Mehrajuddin Wadoo, are relishing the challenge.
    “Bengaluru are a strong and experienced side, but these are the matches you look forward to,” said Wadoo. “We’ll play our football, work hard, and stay disciplined. Results can vary, but performance and effort matter most.”

    Defender Sajad Hussain Parray said the team is ready for the challenge:
    “We’re a young, energetic squad and eager to prove ourselves. Facing a team like Bengaluru is a big test, but also a great opportunity.”

  • Super Cup 2025 : NorthEast United FC Eye Crucial Win Against Jamshedpur FC

    Super Cup 2025 : NorthEast United FC Eye Crucial Win Against Jamshedpur FC

    NorthEast United FC are gearing up for a decisive Group ‘B’ encounter against Jamshedpur FC in the AIFF Super Cup 2025, set to take place at the GMC Athletic Stadium, Bambolim, on Wednesday.

    After a thrilling 2–2 draw in their opener against Inter Kashi FC, the Highlanders are determined to secure their first win of the tournament. Jamshedpur FC, meanwhile, will be eager to bounce back after a disappointing 0–2 loss to FC Goa in their opening fixture.

    Benali Confident, Calls for Focus and Tactical Discipline

    Ahead of the match, NorthEast United’s head coach Juan Pedro Benali emphasized the importance of learning from past performances and maintaining focus.

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

    “We hope we’ve learnt from our past matches and are fully focused on the game ahead. We know Jamshedpur FC very well, and they know us too. It’s going to be a tactical battle, and we’re ready to give everything on the pitch,” said Benali.

    Ajaraie in Red-Hot Form

    Moroccan striker Alaaeddine Ajaraie, the star of NorthEast United’s Durand Cup-winning campaign, continued his scoring form with a goal against Inter Kashi. The 32-year-old, who claimed both the Golden Boot and Golden Ball in the Durand Cup with eight goals and four assists, boasts a formidable record versus Jamshedpur FC — four goals and one assist in four appearances — and will be eager to extend that streak.

    Strong Supporting Cast and Defensive Backbone

    Ajaraie will once again be supported by the club’s talented foreign contingent — Jairo Samperio (2 goals, 1 assist), Andy Rodriguez (2 goals, 2 assists), and Chema Núñez (1 assist) — alongside a promising Indian lineup featuring Jithin MS, Parthib Gogoi, Thoi Singh, Lalrinzuala, and Lalbiakdika.

    Captain Michel Zabaco, who netted a towering header in the previous match, will lead the defensive line alongside Asheer Akhtar, Tondonba Singh, Redeem Tlang, Buanthanglun Samte, and Dinesh Singh, with Gurmeet Singh in goal. In midfield, Rodriguez remains the creative hub, supported by Mayakkannan and India international Macarton Nickson.

    Highlanders Aim for Semifinal Push

    With the group stage heating up, NorthEast United FC will be determined to collect all three points and strengthen their semifinal qualification hopes in the AIFF Super Cup 2025.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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