India. AIFF. Super Cup
The AIFF Super Cup is India's premier club showdown, pitting league champions and cup winners in a high-stakes clash to crown the nation's top team and kick off the season with flair.
History and foundation
Launched in 1997, the Super Cup debuted with Mohun Bagan defeating Salgaocar 3-1. Revamped in 2017 as the AIFF Super Cup, it now features ISL champions, Federation Cup winners, I-League victors, and runners-up. A quirky highlight: Eastern Railway's 1998 upset over Mohun Bagan via a last-gasp goal. Interrupted by COVID in 2020-21, it roared back in 2022 with Realnaldo's win. Over 20 editions showcase Mohun Bagan and Eastern Railway's dominance.
Tournament format
Single-elimination match on neutral ground between top teams from ISL, I-League, and cups; substitutes filled by runners-up if needed. 90 minutes plus extra time and penalties. Hosted in venues like Kolkata or Goa since 2018.
Interesting facts
Averages 2.8 goals per game, peaking at 5-6 in thrillers. Top scorer: Jackson Singh (4 goals). Stars include Sunil Chhetri, who starred in Bengaluru's 2018 triumph with a brace. Imports like Hugo Boumous (Odisha) and Marcin Dziewocki shone bright. Recent standouts: Manu Garcia (ATK Mohun Bagan) and Arthur Melo (Odisha FC) in 2023.