Crazy Time: The Kalinga Super Cup 2025 showcased thrilling Indian football, filled with goals, drama, and exceptional performances. As teams fought fiercely for the prestigious trophy, a few players shone brightly, making a significant impact. FC Goa emerged as the 2025 champions after a dominant 3-0 victory over Jamshedpur FC, becoming the first ISL team to win two Kalinga Super Cup titles.
Hrithik Tiwari (FC Goa)
Hrithik Tiwari of FC Goa will be a key player in the Kalinga Super Cup 2025. The young goalkeeper was a key figure for FC Goa, securing seven clean sheets in 17 ISL matches this season. (Courtesy: ISL Media)
In goal, Hrithik Tiwari proved to be a reliable force for the Gaurs, with his sharp saves and excellent distribution helping them clinch their second Kalinga Super Cup title. He earned two clean sheets in four cup matches, showcasing his reflexes and composure under pressure.
His performance in the high-stakes semifinal was pivotal, as Odisha held firm against a tough Mohun Bagan side. Tiwari was again in top form during the Final against Red Miners, commanding his defense well and remaining solid between the posts.
Crazy Time: Lallianzuala Chhangte (Mumbai City FC)
The dynamic forward was a standout player for Mumbai City FC in the 2025 Kalinga Super Cup, scoring three goals in three matches. (Courtesy: AIFF Media) Lallianzuala Chhangte, known for his electric pace and direct play, tormented full-backs throughout the tournament. Crazy Time, His contributions were vital in Mumbai City FC’s progression through the group stages into the knockout rounds. Chhangte’s decisive goal in the quarterfinals helped the Islanders overcome Inter Kashi.
Iker Guarrotxena (FC Goa)
Iker Guarrotxena delivered for FC Goa, netting four goals in as many appearances in the 2025 Kalinga Super Cup.
Guarrotxena’s ability to find space, hold up play, and finish with clinical precision made him a constant threat. His positional awareness and work ethic brought maturity to Goa’s attacking line. A standout moment came in the opening game against I-League side Gokulam Kerala FC, where Guarrotxena scored a stunning hat-trick, setting the tone for Goa’s Kalinga Super Cup campaign.
Alaeddine Ajaraie (NorthEast United FC)
Despite playing only two matches, Ajaraie made an indelible impact on the Kalinga Super Cup, scoring three goals and providing an assist. (Courtesy: ISL Media)
With explosive pace and a direct dribbling style, Ajaraie gave NorthEast United FC a critical edge in the group stages. Crazy Time, His brief yet brilliant performance only added to his value following a record-breaking 2024-25 ISL season, and he proved to be a key player for the Highlanders in their early run in the competition.
Borja Herrera (FC Goa)
Borja Herrera played a pivotal role in FC Goa’s success during the 2025 Kalinga Super Cup, emerging as the driving force behind their attack. Over the course of four games, he contributed four goals and two assists, showcasing his all-around brilliance. Herrera’s ability to read the game and his calm composure in the final third made him the most well-rounded performer of the tournament. His vision was exceptional, often creating opportunities with perfectly weighted passes and clinical through balls.
Not only was Herrera a creative force, but he also displayed a lethal edge in front of goal. He scored a variety of goals, including long-range strikes that demonstrated his versatility and technical ability. His movement off the ball and intelligent positioning allowed him to find space in dangerous areas, making him a constant threat to opposition defenses.
Herrera’s standout performance came in the Final against Jamshedpur FC, Crazy Time, where he played a key role in FC Goa’s victory. His composure, creativity, and crucial contributions throughout the match earned him the man-of-the-match award and solidified his status as the tournament’s best player. His impact was undeniable, and his performances were integral to FC Goa’s triumph in the 2025 Kalinga Super Cup, further enhancing his reputation as one of the finest midfielders in Indian football.
