The inaugural edition of the Kalinga Super Cup is set to kick off in Odisha on January 9, 2024, as confirmed by the All India Football Federation on November 29, 2023. The prestigious tournament will feature participation from both Indian Super League and I-League teams. Scheduled to take place across two venues in Odisha, the competition will follow a format consisting of four groups, each comprising four teams engaging in single-leg matches. The group victors will advance to the semi-finals, leading to the grand final slated for January 28, 2024.
For I-League teams, entry into the Kalinga Super Cup group stage will be determined through qualifiers, with four reserved slots awaiting them. The coveted title comes with an added incentive, as the champions will secure a nomination to compete in the AFC 2023-24 season’s ACL 2 Preliminary Stage.
Expressing optimism about this strategic move, AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey stated, “In line with our earlier decision, the revamped Kalinga Super Cup promises a broader and more significant perspective for Indian domestic football. The tournament’s relocation to Odisha in January 2024 marks a positive development, and I am confident that the Kalinga Super Cup will garner immense success, both in terms of organization and spectator interest.”
