The Indian Super League (ISL) 2024–25 season might be done and dusted, but there’s no downtime on the Indian football calendar.

The spotlight now turns to Bhubaneswar, where the fifth edition of the Kalinga Super Cup is all set to kick off on Sunday with the final scheduled for May 3.

13 teams from the ISL and some from the I-League, will battle it out in this winner-takes-all sprint with matches set to be played at the Kalinga Stadium. Kerala Blasters FC will take on defending champions East Bengal FC in a gripping opening tie and the stage is set for two weeks of high-octane action.

Here’s everything you need to know before the tournament kicks off.

A format with no second chances

After two editions of group-stage drama, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) has hit rewind on the format. The 2025 edition goes old school with a straight knockout format, similar to what fans saw in the first two seasons. That means every match is do-or-die. Win and live to fight another day. Lose and it’s back to the drawing board.

Expect fewer tactical chess matches and more blood, sweat and goals.

What’s at stake?

It’s not just about silverware and pride. The winner of the 2025 Kalinga Super Cup will secure a berth in the AFC Champions League 2 Playoffs which is a golden opportunity for Indian clubs to make their mark in Asia. With the new continental structure offering more exposure, this spot is huge.

It’s also a chance for clubs to end the season on a high note. For some, it’s redemption. For others, a shot at proving their dominance beyond just the ISL.

The favourites

Mohun Bagan Super Giant

If momentum is a thing, Mohun Bagan Super Giant have it in bucketloads. Fresh off their historic ISL double, lifting both the League Shield and the ISL Cup, the Mariners are looking unstoppable. With a squad bursting with quality, experience, and big-game temperament, Jose Molina’s men will be gunning for their third trophy of the season.

Their attack is fluid, their defence solid, and their bench strength enviable. You’ve got a title contender that’s not just strong on paper, but formidable on the pitch.

Odisha FC

You can't talk about the Kalinga Super Cup without mentioning Odisha FC. They’ve made the final in the last two editions, winning it once, and they’ll be back on familiar turf at the Kalinga Stadium which is their fortress. That home advantage is real.

Under a successful head coach like Sergio Lobera and with a well-drilled squad, Odisha FC are more than just hopefuls, they’re built for knockout football. Watch out for a deep run, especially with the local crowd behind them.

Bengaluru FC

Bengaluru FC may have narrowly missed out on the ISL Cup, but they've had a quietly impressive season. A run to the Durand Cup semis, followed by a finals appearance in the ISL Cup, shows they can go the distance in tournaments.

With a core of experienced heads and a never-say-die attitude, the Blues are built for high-pressure games. Expect them to be a nightmare draw for any side and don’t be surprised if they go all the way.

Dark horses

NorthEast United FC

NorthEast United FC defied expectations by winning the Durand Cup, and their ISL run ended only at the quarter-final stage.

Their attack, spearheaded by ISL Golden Boot winner Alaeddine Ajaraie, is among the most exciting in the tournament. They won’t be there just to participate and they’ve already proven they can win trophies. If they click early, expect fireworks.

Jamshedpur FC

What do you get when you mix belief, structure, and a fearless mindset? That’s Khalid Jamil’s Jamshedpur FC.

They came agonisingly close to reaching the ISL final, knocked out only by a late goal from eventual champions MBSG. But in that run, they showed they can beat anyone, including beating the Mariners in the first leg of the ISL semis.

Jamil has turned this side into a gritty, resilient outfit that thrives under pressure. Don’t sleep on them. They’re dangerous.