Wikipedia - Super Cup (India)

The AIFF Super Cup (also known as the Kalinga Super Cup for sponsorship reasons) is an annual football competition and the premier cup competition in men's domestic football in India. It was founded on February 19, 2018 as a replacement for Federation Cup. Organised by the All India Football Federation (AIFF), the competition is open to all clubs in the Indian Super League and the I-League, the top two division of the Indian football league system respectively.

History

On 19 February 2018, the All India Football Federation announced the creation of the Super Cup as a reformed Federation Cup, India's main knockout football tournament. The qualifiers for the inaugural recherished tournament were held between 15–16 March. The tournament proper then commenced on 31 March and concluded with the final on 20 April 2018. Bengaluru emerged as the winners of the inaugural edition of the recherished tournament. They defeated East Bengal 4–1 in the final.

In the second edition, seven I-League clubs, namely Minerva Punjab, East Bengal, Mohun Bagan, NEROCA, Gokulam Kerala, Aizwal and Churchill Brothers withdrew from the competition citing "unfair treatment to I-League clubs by the AIFF."

From 2020 to 2022, the competition was suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

From the 2024 season onwards the Super Cup is renamed as the Kalinga Super Cup. Inaugural edition was played between 9 and 28 January.

The India Super Cup is a highly anticipated soccer tournament held annually in India. It brings together some of the top football clubs from across the country to compete for the prestigious title.

The tournament showcases the immense talent and passion for the sport in India, attracting a large number of football enthusiasts and fans. It serves as a platform for teams to showcase their skills, strategies, and teamwork, making it a thrilling and competitive event.

The India Super Cup features a knockout format, where teams battle it out in intense matches to progress to the next round. The matches are played in various stadiums across the country, creating a vibrant and electric atmosphere for both players and spectators.

The tournament not only provides an opportunity for established clubs to prove their dominance but also serves as a platform for emerging teams to make a mark in Indian football. It offers a chance for young and talented players to showcase their abilities and catch the attention of national and international scouts.

The India Super Cup is known for its high-quality football, with teams displaying their technical skills, tactical prowess, and physical strength. The matches are fiercely contested, often resulting in nail-biting finishes and memorable moments.

The tournament also promotes the spirit of sportsmanship and unity among players, encouraging fair play and respect for the game. It brings together players from diverse backgrounds, fostering a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect.

The India Super Cup is not only a celebration of football but also a celebration of Indian culture and tradition. It attracts a diverse audience, creating a festive atmosphere with music, dance, and food stalls offering a variety of local delicacies.

Overall, the India Super Cup is a highly anticipated and exciting soccer tournament that showcases the best of Indian football. It serves as a platform for teams to compete, players to shine, and fans to come together in celebration of the beautiful game.