Kalinga Super Cup: List of all winning coaches

The Indian football premier knockout competition has been won by some famous coaches.

The Kalinga Super Cup has been one of Indian football’s premier knockout competition,s featuring teams from the Indian Super League (ISL) and the I-League. As the premier domestic knockout football competition has progressed over the years, the Super Cup has grown in stature since replacing the historic Federation Cup in 2018.

Organised by the All India Football Federation (AIFF), the Kalinga Super Cup has also grown in value for participating clubs. A victory in the Final also ensures qualification for the winning coaches into the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Champions League 2. Only four head coaches have won the Cup since 2018.

Here’s a look at the winning head coaches of the Kalinga Super Cup since its inception:

2018 – Albert Roca (Bengaluru FC)

The inaugural edition of the Kalinga Super Cup saw Albert Roca lead Bengaluru FC to a dominant title win. The Spanish tactician blended structure with flair, enabling a squad filled with Indian stars like Sunil Chhetri and Miku to play dynamic, attacking football.

Roca’s side beat East Bengal FC 4-1 in the Final, stamping their authority on Indian football’s new knockout crown in its inaugural season.

2019 – Sergio Lobera (FC Goa)

A year later, another Spaniard, Sergio Lobera, brought Kalinga Super Cup glory to FC Goa. Known for his possession-heavy, high-tempo style, Lobera’s team played some of the most attractive football in the country.

Led by the likes of Edu Bedia and Ferran Corominas, FC Goa edged Chennaiyin FC in the Final, marking their first major silverware under Lobera’s watch.

ALSO READ: Kalinga Super Cup: List of all winning captains

2023 – Clifford Miranda (Odisha FC)

After a COVID-induced break, the Kalinga Super Cup returned in 2023 after a three-year break. It was Clifford Miranda, the first Indian coach to win the competition, who led Odisha FC to their maiden trophy.

Taking over mid-season, Miranda brought cohesion and motivation to the squad, and his tactical decisions were pivotal in overcoming top ISL sides en route to the Kalinga Super Cup title.

2024 – Carles Cuadrat (East Bengal FC)

Spanish head coach Carles Cuadrat finally ended East Bengal FC’s 12-year wait for a major trophy by clinching the 2024 edition. Known for his meticulous preparation and defensive solidity, Cuadrat brought the best out of players like Cleiton Silva and Naorem Mahesh, guiding the Red and Golds to an emotional triumph.

2025- Manolo Marquez (FC Goa)

The 2025 edition witnessed FC Goa win their second Kalinga Super Cup title in club history. Spanish head coach Manolo Marquez became the fourth Spaniard to lead his side to a win in the Super Cup Final.

Known for his meticulous preparation and defensive solidity, Marquez brought the best out of players like Borja Herrera and Iker Guarrotxena, guiding the Gaurs to an emotional triumph. It also acts as his final game in charge of the club as he leaves at the end of the term with some really pleasent memories.

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.