FC Goa Clinches Record Third AIFF Super Cup FC Goa secured their third AIFF Super Cup title after a thrilling penalty shootout victory over East Bengal FC in the final of the 2025-26 tournament. The match, held at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kolkata, ended 0-0 after extra time, with FC Goa winning 5-4 on penalties. The result marks their first major trophy since the 2022-23 season and extends their record as the most successful team in the competition’s history. The final saw both teams display resilience, with East Bengal FC, led by captain Ajsal, holding firm in the first half. However, FC Goa’s attacking trio of Alaaeddine Ajaraie, Igor Angulo, and Igor Moraes dominated the second half, creating numerous chances. Despite their efforts, neither side could break the deadlock, forcing the match into penalties. FC Goa’s penalty taker, Igor Angulo, scored the decisive spot-kick, sealing the victory for the team. The win was celebrated as a testament to FC Goa’s consistency and depth, with the squad having already claimed the ISL title in 2024. Coach Juan Pedro Benali praised his players’ focus and determination, stating, “This victory is a result of hard work, unity, and belief in each other. We’ve come a long way, and this title is a reward for everyone involved.” The tournament also featured standout performances from several players. In the semi-finals, FC Goa defeated Mumbai City FC 2-1, with goals from Igor Angulo and Alaaeddine Ajaraie. Meanwhile, East Bengal FC showcased their fighting spirit in a 3-1 semi-final win over Punjab FC, with goals from Nsungusi Jr, Parthib Gogoi, and Jorge Pereyra Díaz. Other notable matches included NorthEast United FC’s bid to secure their first win of the season against unbeaten Jamshedpur FC.#jawaharlal_nehru_stadium #east_bengal_fc #fc_goa #aiiff_super_cup #igor_angulo
FC Goa Clinches Record Third AIFF Super Cup FC Goa secured their third AIFF Super Cup title after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over East Bengal FC in the final of the 2025-26 tournament. The match, held at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata, ended 0-0 after extra time, with FC Goa winning 5-6 on penalties. The result extended their unbeaten streak and marked their first major trophy since joining the Indian Super League. The final saw both teams battle fiercely, with East Bengal aiming to bounce back from a 1-2 home defeat against Jamshedpur FC earlier in the season. FC Goa, meanwhile, sought to maintain their unbeaten run, having previously defeated Sporting Club Delhi 1-0 in their last league match. The Gaurs’ victory in the shootout was celebrated as a testament to their resilience and depth, particularly with key players like Dejan Dražić contributing crucial moments in the campaign. East Bengal head coach Óscar Bruzón emphasized the team’s focus on winning rather than drawing, stating, “Our philosophy is to play to win, not to draw. That sometimes means taking defensive risks. We will analyse and adjust, especially against a team like FC Goa who compete for possession.” Despite their efforts, East Bengal fell short in the final, though they remain fifth in the league table with six points from three matches. FC Goa, currently third in the standings with seven points, faced challenges throughout the season due to injuries to players like Saúl Crespo, Kevin Sibille, Mohammed Rakip, and Naorem Mahesh Singh. Head coach Manolo Márquez highlighted the importance of managing young talent, saying, “It’s very important to push players mentally and give opportunities, especially to young players.#vivekananda_yuba_bharati_krirangan #east_bengal_fc #aiiff_super_cup #fc_goa #manolo_marquez
