India. Sahani Cup
The Sahani Cup is a prestigious national knockout competition in Indian football, run by the All India Football Federation (AIFF). It features clubs from the Indian Super League (ISL), I-League, and lower divisions, offering underdogs a shot at glory in a high-stakes playoff format that highlights the competitive depth of Indian soccer.
History and foundation
Named after Dorabji Sahani, a pioneering figure in Indian football administration during the mid-20th century, the cup debuted in 1967 and ranks among Asia's oldest knockout tournaments. Key moments include Mohun Bagan's 1974 rampage with a 10-1 aggregate in semi and final, Salgaocar's 1990s dynasty, and Odisha FC's surprising 2023 final run as newcomers amid ISL integration.
Tournament format
Pure knockout: starts with Round of 16 and quarterfinals for lower-tier teams, progressing to semis and final. Up to 32 clubs compete in single-leg ties, with extra time and penalties if needed. The 2024 edition had 28 entrants, seeded by league status for fairness.
Interesting facts
Average goals per match hover at 2.8, spiking to 3.5 in early rounds due to open play. Top scorers: IM Vijayan (34 goals, 1970s-80s), Clive Sequeira (20+ in 1990s). Stars: Sunil Chhetri (5 titles with Mohun Bagan), Bhaichung Bhutia, Brazilian Hugo Boumous (8 goals for Odisha in 2023), and rising I-League talents.