New Delhi, Oct 24 (NationPress) The AIFF Super Cup 2025-26 is set to commence with two thrilling Group A matches on Saturday. East Bengal FC will face off against Dempo SC at the GMC Stadium in Bambolim, while Mohun Bagan Super Giant will challenge Chennaiyin FC at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Fatorda.

East Bengal FC takes to the pitch first, having participated in two pre-season tournaments, reaching the semi-finals of the Durand Cup and the finals of the IFA Shield. Their form and team cohesion are at an impressive level.

Discussing their readiness for this tournament, East Bengal head coach Óscar Bruzón expressed in a pre-match press conference, “I have faith that our players are ready for the challenge and that we can compete with the finest Indian clubs this year.” As they gear up for the match against Goa’s Dempo SC, Bruzón acknowledges the historical significance of their opponents, who have clinched the Indian top division league title five times.

“We recognize the legacy of this club, and they will likely want to establish their presence in this tournament again,” he stated. “Our preparations have focused on understanding both our rivals' strengths and weaknesses, but this time, we need to concentrate on our own game.”

Midfielder Souvik Chakraborty shared his coach’s confidence, highlighting team unity as a crucial factor for success.

I-League team Dempo SC was included in the Super Cup after Real Kashmir FC withdrew due to visa issues for their foreign players. Although this presented them with a limited preparation period, head coach Samir Naik feels ready to face the challenges ahead. “It’s certainly a challenge to prepare a team in such a short timeframe, but the players have risen to the occasion. We have focused on key areas, and we are prepared,” Naik asserted.

Dempo aims to rekindle their historic battles in Indian football, where the Golden Eagles once vied for top honors alongside the Kolkata giants. Despite now fielding an all-Indian squad, Naik and his team are ready for the challenge.

“Facing Calcutta clubs without foreign players is tough, but I believe we are well-equipped for this,” he commented. “It’s not about having foreigners; it’s about trusting your players, and my team is as capable as any foreign squad.”

Vinay Harji, a former junior international, is a key player for Dempo, operating in midfield. “We are satisfied with our preparation for the Super Cup, and if we work well as a team, we can secure victories,” Harji said. “Every player must give their best on the field.”

Mohun Bagan will face Chennaiyin FC

The Indian Super League champions have arrived in Goa for the AIFF Super Cup, equipped with full strength after recently winning the IFA Shield, defeating city rivals East Bengal in the final. Head Coach José Molina is optimistic about the Green and Maroons' pursuit of another title, emphasizing the importance of balancing defense and attack.

“For me, it's crucial to maintain a balance between defense and offense, preparing the team for all scenarios. We possess equal conviction in scoring and preventing goals.”

Chennaiyin FC, meanwhile, has brought an all-Indian squad to the tournament, but Mohun Bagan SG remains cautious of the threat they present. “They have quality players. Although they may not have foreign players, they will be formidable, and we must be at our best to overcome them,” Molina said.

Midfielder Anirudh Thapa, a former Chennaiyin player now dedicated to the Green and Maroons, is counting on his partnership with Lalengmawia Ralte to secure victories for their side.

“We share a similar playing style, enhancing our understanding,” Thapa stated. “We aim to retain possession, a factor that has contributed to our success in various matches. I hope we can continue improving as a duo.”

Like Dempo, Chennaiyin is focused on providing Indian players with a platform to excel in the AIFF Super Cup. Head coach Clifford Miranda praised his players, believing they can step up when required.

“We have excellent professionals who can rise to the occasion and compete. While foreign players are beneficial, a well-trained unit of Indian players can be equally effective,” Miranda said.

Chennaiyin forward Farukh Choudhary echoed his coach's thoughts, stating, “Seeing so many Indians here, especially the young talents from the reserves and junior teams, is inspiring. They are highly motivated and possess great potential. I hope they seize their chances to showcase their abilities.”

Matches at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium will be broadcast live on Star Sports Khel and streamed on JioHotstar. The GMC Athletic Stadium matches will be live-streamed on the Indian Football YouTube Channel.

Entry to the AIFF Super Cup 2025-26 matches is free for all supporters. The East Stand at the PJN Stadium and the West Stand at the GMC Athletic Stadium are accessible to fans.