FC Goa will now represent India in the AFC Champions League 2. As the final whistle echoed through the rain-soaked Kalinga Stadium, it felt as if the skies themselves were celebrating FC Goa’s moment of triumph.
With their fans singing and dancing in the downpour, the Gaurs lifted the Kalinga Super Cup 2025 in spectacular fashion, overpowering Jamshedpur FC 3-0 in a dominant final on Saturday, May 3, 2025.
Borja Herrera starred with a stunning brace, while Dejan Dražić sealed the victory on a night filled with determination, glory, and a hint of cinematic drama.
Borja Herrera strikes twice as FC Goa beat Khalid Jamil's Jamshedpur FC to win a continental spot!! #IndianFootball #ISL #KalingaSuperCup pic.twitter.com/PiUyTCSErn
— Khel Now (@KhelNow) May 3, 2025
FC Goa’s first trophy under Manolo Marquez
FC Goa’s triumph marked their first trophy under head coach Manolo Márquez, bringing his time at the club to a perfect conclusion. It was also the club’s second Super Cup title, making them the first team to win the tournament twice.
The win also earned FC Goa a spot in the AFC Champions League Two 2025–26, marking their return to Asian club competition after a four-year absence.
Touted as a clash between Goa’s potent attack and Jamshedpur’s solid defence, the match clearly showed which side held the upper hand by the final whistle.
Despite coming into the final without conceding a single goal, Jamshedpur FC—renowned for their disciplined shape and counter-attacking approach—were unable to withstand Goa’s fluid and aggressive style of play.
Borja Herrera’s Brilliance Shines Through
The opening goal came in the 23rd minute. Sangwan tore down the left flank and unleashed a fierce shot that Albino Gomes could only parry. Borja Herrera was quickest to react, and though his first attempt was blocked, he calmly buried the rebound into the top of the net.
Jamshedpur’s best opportunity came late in the first half when Lazar Ćirković’s header struck the crossbar. However, their overall attacking efforts lacked bite throughout the game.
FC Goa extended their lead in the 51st minute with a moment of sheer brilliance. Borja picked up the ball near midfield, surged forward, and fired a thunderous 25-yard strike into the top corner, giving Gomes no chance.
Khalid Jamil’s side tried to respond, with Jordan Murray setting up Javier Siverio, but the striker sent his shot over the bar from close range.
The third and final goal arrived in the 71st minute, showcasing Goa’s composure and precision. McHugh threaded a perfectly timed through ball that Dražić latched onto. He rounded the goalkeeper and slotted it into an open net.
As the rain began to fall in the closing minutes, FC Goa’s players celebrated with joyful dances, capping off a commanding performance and marking a memorable moment in their history.
Borja Herrera was named the Kalinga Player of the Match, presented by Smt. Sonali Chand, OAS, Officer on Special Duty, Sports and Youth Services Department, Government of Odisha.
