Group C of the AIFF Super Cup 2025–26 has evolved into a tactical chessboard where every goal counts as much as every point. With both Punjab FC (PFC) and Bengaluru FC (BFC) sitting atop the table after opening victories, Sunday’s double-header promises to shape the semi-final equation decisively.
On one side, PFC face Mohammedan SC (MSC) at Bambolim; on the other, BFC lock horns with Gokulam Kerala FC (GKFC) at Fatorda. Both ISL clubs are level on three points, but Punjab hold a slender edge thanks to their superior goal difference (+3 to Bengaluru’s +2). With only the group winner advancing, the second matchday has transformed into a race not merely for wins but for goal margins.
Unlike its previous editions, the 2025–26 Super Cup occupies a unique calendar slot staged before the ISL season rather than after. The tournament now doubles as a high-stakes pre-season, with the added incentive of AFC Champions League 2 qualification for the eventual winner.
For clubs like Punjab and Bengaluru, this means the tournament isn’t just about silverware; it’s about setting early-season momentum, testing tactical systems, and fine-tuning squad chemistry. Both teams’ coaches have openly acknowledged the dual aim win, but win convincingly. With head-to-head and goal difference serving as decisive tiebreakers, the pressure to rack up heavy victories against the I-League opponents is immense.
Group C Snapshot: Punjab Lead the Race, barely
After the opening round, the standings reflect a clear division between ISL and I-League strength:
Punjab began with a statement a 3–0 dismantling of Gokulam Kerala. Bengaluru, too, cruised past Mohammedan 2–0, thanks to goals from Kelvin Singh and Sunil Chhetri, but they now trail marginally on goal difference. That gap of one goal, seemingly insignificant on paper, could prove decisive if the top two sides play out a draw when they meet in the group finale. Sunday’s fixtures, therefore, are less about survival and more about setting up a mathematical cushion.
Punjab FC vs Mohammedan SC: The Clash of Intentions
Punjab’s match against Mohammedan SC at the GMC Athletic Stadium is a tactical mismatch on paper but one carrying significant consequences.
Punjab’s Perspective: Chase the Cushion
The “Shers” from Punjab have been the most balanced side so far. In their opening win, Muhammad Suhail, Nikhil Prabhu, and Princeton Rebello found the net, underscoring the team’s multi-pronged attack. Coach Staikos Vergetis has built a side capable of both pressing high and exploiting transitions a key weapon against defensively suspect teams like Mohammedan. Punjab’s immediate goal is clear: extend their goal difference lead over Bengaluru before the decisive head-to-head. Expect Vergetis to instruct his side to maintain relentless attacking intensity even with a two-goal cushion maximizing width, dominating set pieces, and punishing aerial lapses.
With Mohammedan conceding 10 headed goals in the last ISL season the most of any team Punjab are likely to test them early with deliveries from the flanks. Expect Suhail and Luka Majcen to target aerial mismatches, while Princeton Rebello’s set-piece delivery will be central to this strategy.
Mohammedan’s Perspective: Fighting for Survival
For Mohammedan SC, the stakes are existential. Having lost their first match and sitting on a -2 goal difference, another defeat effectively ends their campaign. Head coach Andrey Chernyshov knows that sitting deep will only delay the inevitable.
MSC must attack but that’s precisely where the danger lies. Their push for goals will likely leave gaps in midfield transition, allowing Punjab’s pacey wingers to exploit the counter. Unless Mohammedan show a level of defensive organization they’ve rarely managed in the ISL, this fixture could turn into a goal-chase they can’t sustain.
Prediction for an easy Punjab Win.
Bengaluru FC vs Gokulam Kerala FC: The Margin Game
At Fatorda, Bengaluru FC face a similar dilemma win, and win big. The former champions have looked assured under Gerard Zaragoza, and the integration of new foreign recruits like Salah Bahi and Braian Sanchez has already paid dividends.
Bengaluru’s Mission: Mirror Punjab’s Numbers
While a second straight victory will almost assure BFC a top-two finish, it may not be enough to stay in contention for the semi-finals unless they keep pace with Punjab’s goal difference. That reality places extra emphasis on finishing efficiency. Zaragoza’s side dominated possession in their opening win but lacked the ruthless edge that defined their 2018 Super Cup triumph. The manager’s challenge is to inject that urgency without compromising the defensive discipline that’s become BFC’s hallmark.
With Sunil Chhetri expected to lead the line again, supported by Roshan Singh and Naorem Mahesh down the flanks, BFC will look to overwhelm Gokulam early. If they can secure a two-goal lead within the first hour, expect Zaragoza to push for more substitutions geared toward goal difference rather than game management.
Gokulam’s Challenge: Pride and Proof
Gokulam Kerala FC, meanwhile, are playing for validation. Once the pride of the I-League, they enter the match under immense pressure following a 3–0 defeat to Punjab. Their defensive organization was exposed, particularly after going down to 10 men. Coach José Hevia will likely prioritize compactness, employing a low block and quick counter transitions through Rahim Ali and Sreekuttan. While their chances of progression are slim, a disciplined showing against a heavyweight ISL club could restore some belief before the I-League campaign resumes.
Sunday’s matches are expected to funnel the competition toward a final showdown between Punjab and Bengaluru next week. The most likely outcome dual victories for the ISL sides would leave both on six points and eliminate Mohammedan and Gokulam. In that case, the group winner would almost certainly be decided by goal difference if the final match ends in a draw. For now, both Punjab and Bengaluru know the equation: win by as much as possible, and avoid complacency.
As the Super Cup reclaims its pre-ISL spotlight, Matchday 2 in Group C stands as a test not only of tactical sharpness but of intent. The team that shows more hunger on Sunday may not just win their match they may win the right to play for continental football.
Prediction: Punjab FC 3–0 Mohammedan SC; Bengaluru FC 2–0 Gokulam Kerala FC setting up a winner-takes-all clash for a semi-final spot.
