The Kalinga Super Cup 2025 is down to its final eight teams, with Kerala Blasters FC set to face reigning ISL Shield and Cup champions, Mohun Bagan Super Giant, while FC Goa goes up against Punjab FC on the tournament’s opening day at Kalinga Stadium this Saturday.

The Round of 16 matches delivered some unexpected outcomes, including the surprise exits of defending champions East Bengal FC and last year’s runners-up Odisha FC. In a stunning upset, I-League club Inter Kashi knocked out ISL 2024-25 cup runners-up Bengaluru FC on penalties.

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Meanwhile, ISL clubs Mumbai City FC and NorthEast United FC each made a strong statement with decisive wins over Chennaiyin FC (4-0) and Mohammedan Sporting (6-0), respectively.

On the first day of the quarterfinals, two of India’s most beloved clubs will clash as Kerala Blasters FC meet Mohun Bagan Super Giant, while FC Goa takes on Punjab FC.

A rejuvenated Kerala Blasters FC will face Mohun Bagan SG in their first quarterfinal appearance, under new head coach David Català, who joined just weeks prior to the tournament.

Having defeated the defending champions, the Blasters enter with newfound confidence, though they acknowledge the challenge posed by a Mohun Bagan side featuring several players from their developmental squad. Català remains cautious about the quality of the Green and Maroons.

“We approach every match with the same mindset: to win. We just need to stay focused,” Català remarked. “Facing a younger MBSG team does not grant us an advantage, as they are competent and skilled players, having proven themselves as league and ISL Cup champions. It will be a tough match.”

Mohun Bagan SG, who received a bye in the Round of 16 due to Churchill Brothers’ withdrawal, have already secured a spot in the AFC Champions League Two. They plan to give their younger talents a chance, appointing midfielder Deepak Tangri as the team captain.

Assistant coach Bastab Roy, stepping in for José Molina, emphasizes using this tournament as a platform for experience. “Our main goal is to play, enjoy the sport, and assess how the young players handle this level. There’s no pressure to win,” he stated. “However, we also have seasoned players like Deepak, Sahal, and Ashique, who will contribute significantly.”

The second quarterfinal pits FC Goa against Punjab FC, with the Gaurs historically favored, having never lost to Punjab in their four previous encounters, with the latter only managing a draw.

Nonetheless, FC Goa remains cautious. Head coach Manolo Márquez noted, “Every match against Punjab FC has been challenging. While we were fortunate to win both encounters this season, each game feels like a final.”

Punjab FC’s coach Panagiotis Dilmperis downplayed the significance of their previous victory over Odisha FC, stating, “That match is behind us; we’re focused solely on tomorrow’s game.”

Dilmperis highlighted the need for patience in the face of FC Goa’s strength. “We are up against the ISL’s second-placed team, who possess quality and a solid tactical approach. As this is a knockout match, a draw may lead to penalties, so strategy will be crucial.”

Both matches will be broadcast live on Star Sports 3 and streamed on JioHotstar, with Kerala Blasters FC vs Mohun Bagan SG starting at 4:30 PM IST and FC Goa vs Punjab FC at 8:00 PM.