Kalinga Super Cup 2025: Format, Teams, & More

Even though the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024–2025 season is over, the Indian football calendar is still packed with events. Now, attention is focused on Bhubaneswar, where the fifth Kalinga Super Cup 2025 edition is expected to begin on Sunday and conclude on May 3.

In this winner-take-all race, 13 ISL teams and a few I-League teams will compete. The games will take place at Kalinga Stadium. The stage is set for two weeks of intense action when Kerala Blasters FC play reigning champions East Bengal FC in an exciting first match.

Know everything about the tournament before it kicks off.

A format that doesn’t give second chances

The format has been reverted by the All India Football Federation (AIFF) following two group-stage dramas. Like the first two seasons, the 2025 edition follows the traditional format of a straight knockout match. Every match is therefore crucial. Succeed and go on to battle another day. If you lose, it’s time to start over. There will be more blood, sweat, and goals, and fewer tactical chess battles.

What’s on the line?

It’s more than simply pride and silverware. Indian clubs have a fantastic chance to establish themselves in Asia as the winner of the 2025 Kalinga Super Cup would earn a spot in the AFC Champions League 2 Playoffs. This location is large because of the increased exposure provided by the new continental structure. Clubs have the opportunity to close out the season with a bang. Some see it as a form of atonement. Others saw it as an opportunity to demonstrate their supremacy outside of the ISL. 

The favourites

1. Mohun Bagan Super Giant

Mohun Bagan Super Giant has an abundance of momentum, if there is such a thing. The Mariners appear to be unbeatable after winning the League Shield and the ISL Cup in their historic ISL double. Jose Molina’s team will be vying for their third title of the season with a roster full of talent, experience, and big-game mentality. Their defense is strong, their assault is swift, and their bench strength is impressive. You have a title candidate who is formidable on the field in addition to being strong on paper.

2. Odisha FC

It would be impossible to discuss the Kalinga Super Cup 2025 without bringing up Odisha FC. They will return to their home field at Kalinga Stadium, their stronghold, where they have advanced to the final and won it once in the previous two years. There is a real home advantage. With a well-trained team and a successful head coach like Sergio Lobera, Odisha FC is more than just a hope; they are destined for championship football. With the local fans following them, be on the lookout for a deep run.

3. Bengaluru FC

Bengaluru FC has had a subtly strong season despite barely missing out on the ISL Cup. Their ability to persevere in competition is demonstrated by their run to the Durand Cup semifinals and subsequent appearance in the ISL Cup finals. The Blues are suited for high-pressure games because of their core group of seasoned players and their never-say-die mentality. Don’t be shocked if they go all the way; they’ll be a nightmare draw for any side.

Dark Horses

1. NorthEast United FC

Their ISL run ended only in the quarterfinals, and NorthEast United FC surprised everyone by winning the Durand Cup. Alaeddine Ajaraie, the ISL Golden Boot winner, leads their attack, which is one of the most thrilling in the competition. They have already shown that they are capable of winning trophies, so they won’t be there merely to take part. You can anticipate fireworks if they click early.

2. Jamshedpur FC

Combining belief, structure, and an unafraid attitude yields what? Khalid Jamil’s Jamshedpur FC is that. They were eliminated by a late goal from eventual champions MBSG, although they came incredibly close to making it to the ISL final. They proved they could defeat anyone during that run, though, as they defeated the Mariners in the opening leg of the ISL semifinals. This side has become a tough, resilient group that performs well under duress thanks to Jamil. Avoid sleeping on them. They are hazardous.

Kalinga Super Cup 2025

Teams from the Indian Super League and the I-League compete in the Kalinga Super Cup, an interleague cup competition. The AFC Champions League 2 Preliminary Round is open to the Kalinga Super Cup winners. 16 teams are split up into four groups of four each for the final round. To compete for the Kalinga Super Cup title, the group winners advance to the semi-final and ultimately the final. After defeating Odisha FC 3-2 in extra time in Bhubaneswar, East Bengal FC won the Kalinga Super Cup 2024, ending their 12-year wait for a national championship.

FAQ on the 2025 Kalinga Super Cup