Kalinga Super Cup: List of all winning captains

Some notable players won the Kalinga Super Cup while captaining their sides to glory.

One of India football’s premier club knockout competitions, the Kalinga Super Cup is organized by the All India Football Federation (AIFF) every year. Since the competition’s inception in 2018 replacing the legendary Federation Cup, the tournament has given fans all the thrills and spills associated with football knockout competitions.

The Kalinga Super Cup has witnessed multiple winners over the years with clubs like Bengaluru FC, FC Goa, Odisha FC and East Bengal FC lifting the coveted Cup.

Let us look at the all the players who captained their sides to Kalinga Super Cup glory:

2018: Sunil Chhetri (Bengaluru FC)

Indian football legend Sunil Chhetri was the first captain to lift the inaugural Kalinga Super Cup trophy. Leading Bengaluru FC, Chhetri scored six goals in four games during the 2018 edition and played a pivotal role in the final, guiding his side to a commanding 4-1 win over East Bengal with a brilliant brace.

His leadership and goal-scoring instincts set the benchmark for future editions. Chhetri was magnificent throughout the tournament and he also pitched in with a man of the match performance in the Final.

2019 – Edu Bedia (FC Goa)

Spanish midfielder Edu Bedia captained a fluid and attacking FC Goa side that won the 2019 Super Cup as theu defeated Chennaiyin FC by a scoreline of 2-1. While he missed out playing in the semi-final against Chennai City, he was deployed in the defensive midfield role against the Marina Machans.

Known for his composure and control in midfield, Bedia’s vision and calm presence helped the Gaurs secure their first major title under head coach Sergio Lobera.

2023 – Carlos Delgado (Odisha FC)

After a two-year gap due to the pandemic, the Super Cup returned in 2023, and it was Odisha FC who triumphed under the stewardship of Clifford Miranda. Spanish defender Carlos Delgado wore the captain’s armband and led with authority, anchoring the backline and inspiring the Juggernauts to their first trophy.

The victory marked a historic milestone for the Bhubaneswar-based club.

2024 – Cleiton Silva (East Bengal FC)

Brazilian forward Cleiton Silva captained East Bengal FC to a long-awaited title in 2024, ending a 12-year wait fot their first national title. After years of near misses in the competition, Silva’s leadership and attacking flair helped the Red and Gold Brigade finally break the bounds and clinch the crown.

His performances were key in turning East Bengal into serious contenders once again, however, under head coach Carles Cuadrat, the club were not able to build on their momentum for the 2024-25 season.

2025- Odei Onaindia

The 35-year-old Spaniard is one of the elder statesman in the Gaurs side this season. Onaindia was one of the rocks at the back for FC Goa this season as he helped his side keep two clean sheets.

He also formed a formidable partnership with Sandesh Jhingan and eased the pressure off young goalkeeper Hrithik Tiwari at the back. His performance in the Final also showcased his value under Manolo Marquez.

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