How can Jamshedpur FC win the Kalinga Super Cup 2025?

An AFC continental spot is at stake for the Red Miners.

Indian Super League (ISL) club Jamshedpur FC had one of the most memorable campaigns in the eight-year existence of this franchise. Not only did the Red Miners emerge as one of the strongest contenders for the ISL Shield, but they also nearly got the better of the Mariners to reach the ISL Finals. Despite a fantastic season, their trophy cabinet doesn’t change much.

The Kalinga Super Cup 2025 presents a golden opportunity for the Men of Steel to redeem themselves and secure a continental spot in ACL 2. The Red Miners’ last two Super Cup campaigns have been nothing less than extraordinary as they went on to reach the Semi-Finals in the last two editions.

In this feature article, we take a look at how Jamshedpur FC can win the Kalinga Super Cup 2025.

Khalid Jamil won’t underestimate the threat from the Nizams

Jamshedpur FC could have easily avoided facing Mohun Bagan Super Giant in the ISL semifinals if they had won their away game against a struggling Hyderabad outfit. A game which seemed a cakewalk for the Red Miners saw Jamshedpur FC departing from the City of Pearls, empty-handed.

Amidst rumours of Hyderabad FC relocating to New Delhi next season onwards, the players and the franchise would be keen to make this last tournament a memorable one. A possible upset could be at cards, but Khalid’s experience and Jamshedpur’s recent form make it appear unlikely for the Nizams.

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Familiar foes are expected in the Quarter Finals

Jamshedpur FC will most likely lock horns against Juan Pedro Benali’s NorthEast United FC in the quarter-finals of the Kalinga Super Cup 2025. The Highlanders thrashed the Red Miners twice in the league stage, but Jamshedpur FC had the last laugh and performed when it mattered the most. They defeated NorthEast United 2-0 in Shillong in their most recent encounter during the ISL playoffs.

ISL’s record goalscorer, Alaeddine Ajaraie, is expected to be threatening, whereas Jamshedpur FC’s goalkeeper Albino Gomes is expected to reinforce the Red Miners’ backline. Despite NorthEast United FC having a better head-to-head record against the Red Miners, Khalid Jamil’s tactical acumen can help Jamshedpur get past his former employers.

A likely meet-up with the Blues or Islanders in the semi-finals

If Jamshedpur FC makes it to the ISL Semi-Finals, they will ply their trade against either of Gerard Zaragoza’s Bengaluru FC or Petr Kratky’s Mumbai City FC.

Jamshedpur FC scripted a turnaround victory against the Blues when they met back in the Furnace, a couple of months ago. But they will have to be wary of the threats posed by Bengaluru FC. They would be roaring like a hungry lion after losing the ISL title to Mohun Bagan Super Giant in the Finals, despite taking an early lead.

Facing a Mumbai outfit would be a good scenario for Khalid Jamil, as his record against Mumbai City FC has been nothing less than extraordinary. The Red Miners completed a double over Petr Kratky’s side while scoring six goals in two matches against the Islanders.

Can Jamshedpur FC overcome the Final challenge?

Jamshedpur FC have never reached the finals of any major competition, and if they do so this time, they might emerge as the favourites to win the Kalinga Super Cup. The Red Miners will most likely face Manolo Marquez’s FC Goa, against whom the Red Miners completed a double in the league stages.

Other possible opponents could be Kerala Blasters FC, who, under David Catala, appear to be a different team. Odisha FC could also turn out to be a surprise package, given their pool contains FC Goa, who will be without their experienced striker, Armando Sadiku. Mohun Bagan Super Giant has also fielded an all Indian squad.

Jamshedpur FC would look forward to holding on to their nerves in those big games, and if players like Stephen Eze, Javier Hernandez, and Albino Gomes continue their sublime form. The fans might soon witness the Furnace hosting some of the biggest powerhouses in Asian football.

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