India Super Cup
The Indian Super Cup is a prestigious annual football tournament pitting the Indian Super League (ISL) champion against the Federation Cup winner to crown the super champion. Launched in its current form in 2017, it has become a highlight of Indian football, drawing millions of viewers and underscoring the sport's booming popularity in the nation.
History and foundation
Originating in 1997 as a clash between the National Football League champion and Federation Cup holder, the Super Cup was revived in 2017 by the All India Football Federation (AIFF). Bengaluru FC claimed the inaugural modern edition, thrashing East Bengal 2-0. East Bengal retaliated in 2018, while Mohun Bagan triumphed in 2019. The COVID-19 pandemic halted proceedings in 2020, but ATK Mohun Bagan (now Indian Sporting League's Delhi Bulls) won in 2021 against Bengaluru. By 2023, seven editions have showcased southern dominance with intriguing facts like foreign player impacts.
Tournament format
The format is straightforward: a single knockout match between the ISL champion and Federation Cup winner. If one team holds both titles, the Cup finalist faces the ISL runner-up. Played on a neutral venue, often in Mumbai or Kolkata, it features extra time and penalties if needed. The 2023/24 edition is slated for May, maintaining the spring finale tradition.
Interesting facts
Matches average 2.8 goals per game, highlighted by Hugo Bueno's hat-trick in 2022. Top scorers include Leandro Pereira (Bengaluru FC) with 3 goals, Manvir Singh (ATK Mohun Bagan), and Dimitar Petrov. Stars like Clemente Depetri, Liston Colaco, and Sandeep Muliyaka have turned the Super Cup into a talent showcase, attracting scouts from EPL and MLS. Odisha FC's Wilfried Zaha shone in 2023 before Pune City's victory.