The All India Football Federation has officially announced the knockout stage dates for the highly anticipated AIFF Super Cup 2025-26, setting the stage for a thrilling December finale. In a significant scheduling update, the semifinals will take place on December 4, 2025, followed by the grand final on December 7, 2025, all at the iconic Fatorda Stadium in Goa.
This announcement comes as the group stage reaches its dramatic conclusion, with three teams already securing their semifinal berths and the final spot hanging in the balance. The revised dates ensure maximum visibility for Indian football’s premier knockout competition.
Table of Contents
Qualified Teams and Semifinal Matchups
The AIFF Super Cup 2025-26 has already delivered spectacular football, with three teams confirming their places in the final four:
Confirmed Semifinalists
| Team | Group | Qualification Status | Notable Achievement |
|---|---|---|---|
| East Bengal FC | Group A | Qualified | Kolkata derby winners |
| FC Goa | Group B | Qualified | Defending champions |
| Punjab FC | Group C | Qualified | Penalty shootout victory over Bengaluru FC |
| TBD | Group D | Pending | Battle between Kerala Blasters, Mumbai City, Rajasthan United |
Semifinal Schedule – December 4, 2025
The semifinals will feature intense matchups with continental qualification at stake:
| Semifinal | Teams | Venue | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semifinal 1 | Punjab FC vs East Bengal FC | Fatorda Stadium | 4:30 PM IST |
| Semifinal 2 | FC Goa vs Group D Winner | Fatorda Stadium | 7:30 PM IST |
Group Stage Drama Unfolds
The tournament has witnessed remarkable upsets and stellar performances as teams battle for the coveted AFC Champions League Two qualification spot.
Group A: Kolkata Derby Dominance
East Bengal FC emerged victorious from a challenging group that included rivals Mohun Bagan Super Giant. The Red and Gold Brigade’s qualification showcases their resurgence under current management, setting up exciting prospects for the knockout stages.
Group B: Defending Champions Maintain Form
FC Goa, the defending champions, have lived up to expectations by securing their semifinal berth. The Gaurs demonstrated their championship pedigree with dominant performances, including victories over Jamshedpur FC and NorthEast United FC.
| Group B Standings | Played | Won | Drawn | Lost | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FC Goa | 3 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 6 |
| NorthEast United FC | 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 4 |
| Jamshedpur FC | 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 4 |
| Inter Kashi | 3 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 2 |
Group C: Punjab FC’s Penalty Heroics
Punjab FC’s qualification came through dramatic circumstances, defeating Bengaluru FC 5-4 on penalties after a goalless draw. This victory epitomizes the competitive nature of the AIFF Super Cup 2025-26, where every match could swing either way.
Stakes and Continental Implications
The AIFF Super Cup 2025-26 carries immense significance beyond domestic glory. The tournament winner secures qualification for the AFC Champions League Two 2026-27 preliminary stage, representing Indian football on the continental stage.
Prize Structure and Benefits
- Champion: AFC Champions League Two qualification + Trophy
- Runner-up: Enhanced reputation and domestic recognition
- Semifinalists: Valuable competitive experience against top-tier opposition
Group D: Final Qualification Battle
The most intriguing subplot involves Group D, where Kerala Blasters FC, Mumbai City FC, and Rajasthan United FC remain in contention for the final semifinal spot.
Current Group D Scenario
| Team | Points | Matches Remaining | Qualification Chances |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kerala Blasters FC | 6 | 1 | High (need draw vs Mumbai City) |
| Rajasthan United FC | 3 | 1 | Medium (need big win + Mumbai loss) |
| Mumbai City FC | 3 | 1 | Medium (need win vs Kerala Blasters) |
| Sporting Club Delhi | 0 | 1 | Eliminated |
Tournament Format and Broadcasting
The AIFF Super Cup 2025-26 follows a hybrid format combining group stage and knockout elements, ensuring maximum competitive intensity.
Broadcasting and Streaming Details
- Fatorda Stadium matches: JioHotstar and Star Sports Khel
- Bambolim Stadium matches: Indian Football YouTube channel
- Language options: Multiple regional languages available
- International viewers: Limited streaming options available
Historical Context and Previous Winners
This marks the sixth edition of the AIFF Super Cup, previously known as the Kalinga Super Cup. FC Goa enters as defending champions, having defeated Jamshedpur FC 3-0 in the 2025 final to become the first club to win the title twice.
Tournament Legacy
| Year | Champion | Runner-up | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | FC Goa | Jamshedpur FC | Bhubaneswar |
| 2024 | East Bengal FC | Odisha FC | Bhubaneswar |
| 2023 | Odisha FC | Bengaluru FC | Bhubaneswar |
| 2019 | FC Goa | Chennaiyin FC | Bhubaneswar |
| 2018 | Bengaluru FC | East Bengal FC | Bhubaneswar |
The competition’s growth reflects the expanding landscape of Indian football, with increased participation from I-League clubs and enhanced production values.
Road to December Finale
As teams prepare for the December showdown, tactical preparations and squad fitness become paramount. The extended gap between group stage completion (November 6) and knockout commencement (December 4) provides adequate recovery time while maintaining competitive momentum.
The revised schedule accommodates the FIFA international window and ensures optimal conditions for the tournament’s climax. Both semifinals and the final will be broadcast live, guaranteeing maximum exposure for Indian football’s showcase event.
The AIFF Super Cup 2025-26 promises an electrifying conclusion with the December 4 semifinals and December 7 final, showcasing the best of Indian football while offering crucial continental qualification opportunities for the participating clubs.
FAQs
When are the AIFF Super Cup 2025-26 semifinals and final?
The semifinals will be held on December 4, 2025, and the final on December 7, 2025, all at Fatorda Stadium, Goa.
Which teams have qualified for the AIFF Super Cup 2025-26 semifinals?
East Bengal FC, FC Goa, and Punjab FC have qualified, with one Group D spot remaining between Kerala Blasters, Mumbai City FC, and Rajasthan United FC.
What does the AIFF Super Cup 2025-26 winner receive?
The champion qualifies for the AFC Champions League Two 2026-27 preliminary stage, along with the prestigious trophy and domestic recognition.
Where can I watch the AIFF Super Cup 2025-26 matches live?
Fatorda matches stream on JioHotstar and Star Sports Khel, while Bambolim matches are available on Indian Football’s official YouTube channel.
How many teams participate in the AIFF Super Cup 2025-26?
16 teams participate – 13 from the Indian Super League (except Odisha FC) and 3 from the I-League (Dempo SC, Gokulam Kerala FC, and Rajasthan United FC).
