AIFF Super Cup Semis: East Bengal, Punjab, Goa & Mumbai City Battle for Final Berth

India, Dec 04 : The race to the AIFF Super Cup 2025-26 final intensifies on Thursday as East Bengal FC, Punjab FC, FC Goa and Mumbai City FC gear up for a high stakes double header semifinal at the PJN Stadium in Fatorda, Goa.

Defending champions East Bengal FC take on Punjab FC in the first semifinal at 16:00 IST, followed by FC Goa vs Mumbai City FC at 20:00 IST. A victory not only ensures a place in the final but also keeps alive the chase for continental qualification.

East Bengal FC vs Punjab FC

Both teams topped tightly contested groups to reach the semis. East Bengal held Mohun Bagan to a goalless draw in their final group game, while Punjab advanced after a dramatic penalty shoot out win over Bengaluru FC highlighting their flawless defensive run without conceding a single goal.

Head coach Oscar Bruzon said East Bengal’s preparation has been months in the making, emphasising their strong identity and tactical maturity. “We trust our game model. Thinking about the final now would be a loss of focus,” he said.

Full-back Jay Gupta added that securing an Asian spot remains a strong motivation for the squad.

Bruzon praised Punjab FC’s defensive compactness and aggressive transitions while acknowledging potential tactical surprises from their opponents.

Punjab FC head coach Panagiotis Dilmperis said his side is well-prepared after a long training block. “We have no pressure. East Bengal are strong in all positions, but we’re ready for every phase of the match,” he said.

Midfielder Leon Augustine echoed his coach’s confidence, stressing that the team is in excellent rhythm heading into the semifinal.

FC Goa vs Mumbai City FC

The second semifinal features contrasting preparations—Mumbai City FC arrive after weeks of training without competitive action, while FC Goa enter battle-worn after AFC Champions League Two matches.

Mumbai head coach Petr Kratky said his squad is motivated to reach their first Super Cup final, adding, “We want to return to AFC competition. We’ve prepared well and want to make our fans proud.”

Midfielder Brandon Fernandes, a former FC Goa player, said the focus is solely on execution: “Goa are strong, but we’re ready.”

FC Goa head coach Manolo Márquez admitted his team faces a demanding schedule but believes high-intensity ACL matches have strengthened the squad. “Both teams have advantages. It’s one match—anything can happen,” he said.

Young defender Ronney Wilson Kharbudon, who debuted against Al Nassr, said the international exposure has boosted the team’s confidence.

With 16 goals scored in their last five meetings, the FC Goa–Mumbai City clash promises another entertaining contest. Their previous ISL encounter ended in Goa’s 3-1 win, breaking Mumbai’s 10-match unbeaten streak against the Gaurs.

“Both sides play attacking possession football,” Márquez said. “It should be a good match, but football is unpredictable.”