Fatorda (Goa): With their continental campaign briefly on pause, FC Goa are set to shift focus back to domestic glory as they kick off their Super Cup 2025 title defence on home turf. The Gaurs open their campaign against Jamshedpur FC — the very side they defeated in last season’s final — at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Fatorda on Sunday.
Drawn into a competitive Group B alongside Durand Cup champions NorthEast United FC, I-League winners Inter Kashi, and Jamshedpur FC, the reigning champions face a challenging road ahead. The group promises high-intensity contests, with all of FC Goa’s matches scheduled in Fatorda, while other group fixtures unfold simultaneously in Fatorda and Bambolim.
For Manolo Marquez’s men, the tournament marks a return to familiar surroundings after a demanding first half of their AFC Champions League Two campaign. Having already played three continental matches, the squad arrives battle-ready and in rhythm — unlike many domestic rivals who are returning to competitive action after the off-season.
Backed by the home crowd at Fatorda, the Gaurs will once again rely on their trademark mix of structured possession, quick transitions, and disciplined teamwork — key tenets of Marquez’s philosophy. The atmosphere and local support are expected to provide a crucial lift as they aim for a strong start.
With three group matches condensed into a single week, the schedule will test depth and consistency before FC Goa resume continental action with an away clash against Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia.
As the lights come on at Fatorda, the champions’ objective is straightforward: begin their Super Cup defence with purpose, capitalize on home advantage, and build momentum for the challenges ahead.
