AIFF plans to present Super Cup as season-opener; No specific decision on ISL
The All India Football Federation (AIFF), in its scheduled meeting with 13 ISL clubs and commercial partner Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL) on Wednesday, failed to reach a specific resolution regarding the commencement of the ISL this season. The All India Football Federation (AIFF) president, Kalyan Chaubey, revealed that the ISL must take place, but without mentioning any specific time for the League. Rather, he asserted that in a bid to continue with the country’s domestic football, the AIFF is planning to reschedule the Super Cup as the season-opener this season! Eleven clubs sent their officials to New Delhi, while Mohun Bagan Super Giant and Odisha FC joined virtually. The club representatives also did not seem to have been convinced by the AIFF president’s promise, as it is learnt that they agreed to take part in the Super Cup, provided a specific announcement on the ISL. The clubs also demanded clarity and legal assurance about the top-tier league structure before committing fully to the tournament. “The main purpose of the meeting was to discuss how clubs can plan their year. Whatever the situation, the game must go on,” said AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey. “Clubs asked about the way forward with the transfer window ending on the 31st and pre-season training also coming up.” With legal uncertainties surrounding the top-tier league’s recognition, the AIFF said it will seek legal advice to explore interim solutions. This came after questions were raised about the delay in approaching the Supreme Court for urgent relief regarding the league’s status. “We may reschedule the Super Cup to before the season starts. The current agreement is up for renewal, and we have agreed to modify the tournament to reduce logistics. Some clubs have not started pre-season, so we need 6-8 weeks for preparation. We will meet again to decide the date of the Super Cup,” added Chaubey. Vice-President N.A. Haris acknowledged the legal roadblock, saying, “The decision lies with the Supreme Court, so we can’t do anything. We asked to get it fast, but it’s the Supreme Court’s decision.” Tensions had been simmering in recent weeks, culminating in a joint letter signed by eight ISL clubs — Bengaluru FC, FC Goa, Hyderabad FC, Jamshedpur FC, Kerala Blasters, NorthEast United, Odisha FC, and Punjab FC — seeking clarity on the upcoming season’s structure. The letter raised serious concerns over scheduling, financial planning, and the absence of a formal roadmap. Both the Super Cup and ISL are expected to take place this season, with the former likely kicking off first. A follow-up meeting is scheduled within the next 7–10 days to finalise the tournament’s structure, dates, and format. As things stand, Indian football remains at a crossroads, with the legal outcome yet to shape the final calendar. But Wednesday’s meeting offered a much-needed step toward clarity and collaboration between the country’s top governing body and its premier clubs.
Sahal, Suhail’s goals bring victory for the Mariners
The Mohun Bagan Super Giant youngsters justified their selection for the Super Cup 2025 after beating Kerala Blasters 2-1 in their quarterfinal clash at the Kalinga Stadium here on Saturday. Sahal Abdul Samad and Suhail Bhat scored either side of half time to give the Mariners a two-goal lead and despite some late incursions into the box from the Blasters, Sreekuttan’s goal came a little too late. Sahal opened the scoring against his former side in the 23rd minute. Adnan with some excellent footwork on the right flank, dances past Naocha and into the box. Passes the ball to Sahal who dinks it over the keeper after a close first touch. In the 51st minute Suhail Bhat doubled the lead. Ashique’s stepover past Hormipam opened up the space for a low cross in and Suhail, offering a speedy run to the far post knocked the ball into the net. In the 93rd minute, Sreekuttan reduced the margin for Kerala Blasters. Sreekuttan was played in by Jimenez after his shot is blocked. The young attacker smacked it high into the net past Dheeraj to score the consolation.
