Daijiworld Media Network - Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar, May 4: FC Goa capped off a sensational campaign by overpowering Jamshedpur FC 3–0 in the final of the Kalinga Super Cup 2025, lifting the trophy for a second time and booking their place in the AFC Champions League Two 2025–26.

Under pouring rain at the Kalinga Stadium, the Gaurs delivered a commanding display, driven by a brace from Borja Herrera and a slick finish by Dejan Drazic. The victory also marked a fairytale ending to head coach Manolo Márquez’s tenure, as he secured his first silverware with the club.

Herrera opened the scoring in the 22nd minute, reacting quickest after a rebound from Aakash Sangwan’s powerful shot. He doubled the lead early in the second half with a thunderous long-range strike that left Jamshedpur keeper Albino Gomes rooted. Drazic sealed the win in the 71st minute, calmly rounding the goalkeeper after a clever through-ball from Carl McHugh.

Despite Jamshedpur entering the final with a perfect defensive record, FC Goa’s relentless attacking play proved too much to handle. Goa dominated possession and space, with Sangwan and Drazic stretching the wings, and Borja and McHugh controlling the midfield tempo.

Jamshedpur had their moments — Javier Hernandez tested Hrithik Tiwari early, and Lazar Cirkovic struck the crossbar late in the first half — but their attacking efforts lacked bite. Attempts to rally in the second half fell flat, with their best chance squandered by Javier Siverio.

As the rain poured and the final whistle blew, FC Goa’s players erupted in celebration, dancing on the soaked pitch in a moment that symbolised not just triumph, but transformation. The Gaurs became the first team to win the Kalinga Super Cup twice, underlining their resurgence on the national stage and setting their sights on continental glory.