The Super Cup replaced the existing knockout competition, the Federation Cup. The Super Cup takes an interesting turn with the two I-League clubs, East Bengal and Mohun Bagan playing with two ISL clubs, FC Goa and Bengaluru FC, in the semifinals.
FC Goa has been dominant in their first two games of the Super Cup, winning 3-1 in their pre-quarterfinal against ATK. Next up, they destroyed Jamshedpur FC in their quarterfinal match on Thursday, winning 5-1. The game witnessed 6 red cards, 3 each to players of FC Goa and Jamshedpur FC.
On the other hand, things have not been as easy for East Bengal and they have really had to toil hard to make their way to the semi-finals. East Bengal started the competition well, defeating Mumbai City FC 2-1 in their pre-quarterfinal match.
Their quarter-final against Aizawl FC was a very closely contested one. Both sides created good chances but failed to convert. Ultimately, the deadlock was broken when East Bengal's Ansumana Kromah was awarded a very late penalty deep into extra time.
Ralte took the penalty and the cool-headed footballer converted it to ensure East Bengal's place in the semi-finals.
2018 Hero Super Cup (Indian Super Cup) is nearing its final stages and we will see things heating up further in the semifinals.
If East Bengal win this match and Mohun Bagan win their semifinal against Bengaluru then we can get all set for a 'Boro Match' or 'Big match' or the all-famous Kolkata derby. What a match that will be!
Date: 16 April 2018
Match: East Bengal vs FC Goa
Timing: 4:00 PM Indian Standard Time (IST)
Venue: Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar
Television Channel: Star Sports Network
Live Stream: Hotstar
You can also follow the LIVE UPDATES from the match on Sportskeeda.