The Kalinga Super Cup 2024 kicks off this Sunday in Bhubaneswar with a high-voltage clash between defending champions East Bengal FC and Kerala Blasters FC. This year, 15 teams are competing for not only the trophy but also the only available spot in the AFC Champions League 2 next season.
Unlike the last two seasons, the 2024 edition will follow a knockout format—meaning every match is a must-win. There will be no group stage, just direct elimination like in 2018 and 2019.
East Bengal Eye Another Title
East Bengal FC lifted the Super Cup last year after a thrilling 3-2 extra-time win against Odisha FC. They also ended a long 12-year wait for a national trophy. Now, they return to defend their title on the same ground where they made history.
East Bengal have past experience defending cup titles—they won back-to-back Federation Cups in 2009-10 and 2010. But Kerala Blasters are still chasing their first major trophy at the national level. Both teams had disappointing Indian Super League (ISL) seasons, finishing ninth and eighth, making this tournament a perfect chance for redemption.
The winner of this match will play against Mohun Bagan Super Giant in the quarter-finals on April 26, after Churchill Brothers pulled out of the competition.
Other Exciting Fixtures
- April 21: 2019 champions FC Goa take on Gokulam Kerala FC. Goa will look to bounce back after poor performances in recent editions, while Gokulam hope to make their second Asian appearance after the 2022 AFC Cup.
- April 22: Odisha FC, last year’s runners-up, face Punjab FC. Odisha have been dominant in the Super Cup, winning in 2023 and finishing second in 2024. Punjab FC, on the other hand, are still looking to make a mark.
- April 23: Bengaluru FC vs Inter Kashi. Bengaluru are aiming to become the first two-time Super Cup winners. Inter Kashi, playing their second tournament, will try to avoid another early exit.
- April 24: Mumbai City FC will play Chennaiyin FC in what will be their fourth Super Cup meeting, the most in tournament history. Mumbai have a 13-game unbeaten run against Chennaiyin in all competitions.
- April 24: NorthEast United FC meet Mohammedan Sporting. NorthEast United recently won their first-ever trophy, the Durand Cup, while Mohammedan hope to bounce back from a tough ISL debut season.
- April 25: Jamshedpur FC take on Hyderabad FC in the final Round of 16 fixture.
Road to the Title
The quarter-finals will be held on April 26 and 27, the semi-finals on April 30, and the final is scheduled for May 3.
With a spot in the AFC Champions League 2 on the line, every match is a final, and every team is giving it their all. Football fans across India can expect thrilling action, surprise upsets, and memorable moments in this high-stakes tournament.