Top five games to watch in AIFF Super Cup 2025-26

The Super Cup will start on October 25.

The Indian football season is finally set to resume after an indefinite pause. While there is still no confirmation on when the 2025-26 Indian Super League campaign will begin, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) has announced the Super Cup as the curtain raiser for the next season.

The 2025 AIFF Super Cup will kick off on 25th October with East Bengal taking on Real Kashmir in the tournament opener. Like in previous editions, the winner will earn a berth in the AFC Champions League 2 preliminary round.

Aside from Odisha FC, all other ISL clubs will compete in the tournament, with 16 teams divided into four groups. Here are five group-stage clashes you cannot afford to miss when the competition gets underway next month.

FC Goa vs Inter Kashi (Group B) – 29th October 2025

Inter Kashi were crowned I-League champions earlier this year, ending Churchill Brothers’ hold on the title. The Warriors of Kashi invested heavily in their squad last season with the clear goal of securing promotion—something they achieved by lifting the league trophy.

FC Goa, meanwhile, are one of the most decorated clubs in the ISL and the defending Super Cup champions. This “Champion vs Champion” battle promises plenty of intrigue, especially with Inter Kashi keen to avenge their 2-1 loss to the Gaurs in the 2024 edition.

Mohun Bagan SG vs East Bengal (Group A) – 31st October 2025

By default, the Kolkata Derby is always a must-watch fixture on the Indian football calendar, regardless of either team’s form. Mohun Bagan have dominated their city rivals since both clubs entered the ISL, but that only fuels East Bengal’s hunger.

The Mariners remain the team to beat and have held the upper hand in recent years. With Chennaiyin FC and Real Kashmir also in the group, three points in the derby could prove decisive in securing a spot in the knockout rounds.

FC Goa vs NorthEast United (Group B) – 1st November 2025

This clash promises goals and drama, as both teams are known for their attacking style of play. NorthEast United, fresh from winning back-to-back Durand Cups, are brimming with confidence under Juan Pedro Benali. FC Goa, led by Manolo Marquez, look equally well-drilled and composed.

Their two ISL meetings last season both ended in draws, highlighting the tactical brilliance of both coaches. Expect fireworks in this Group B encounter, as both clubs are strong contenders to finish top of the table.

Bengaluru FC vs Punjab FC (Group C) – 5th November 2025

This game stands out for reasons beyond just the football. Bengaluru FC and Punjab FC are the only two ISL clubs whose academies received a coveted 5-star AIFF accreditation for the 2025-26 season. Both sides have several academy graduates making their mark in the first team.

On the senior stage, the two clubs have faced each other five times, with both picking up two wins apiece. This clash is poised to be one of the highlights of Group C, which also features Gokulam Kerala and Mohammedan Sporting.

Mumbai City vs Kerala Blasters (Group D) – 6th November 2025

Mumbai City vs Kerala Blasters is a rivalry which is steadily gaining intensity in recent years. Both clubs have exchanged blows since the ISL’s inaugural season. The Islanders have added silverware to their cabinet in recent seasons. On the other hand, the Blasters continue their long wait for a first major trophy.

For Kerala Blasters, the AIFF Super Cup could finally be the tournament that ends their silverware drought. But this particular clash may well decide who qualifies from the group, raising the stakes even higher.

For more updates, follow Khel Now on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.