In a significant development for Indian football, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) has unveiled key regulations for the upcoming Kalinga Super Cup, set to kick off in Odisha on January 9, 2024.
The AIFF, on December 14, 2023, revealed that participating clubs in the Kalinga Super Cup will now be permitted to register up to six foreign players in their matchday squads.
Teams can also initiate matches with a maximum of six foreign players on the pitch.
Nationality Requirement:
In the event that more than five foreign players are selected in the Player Selection List, at least one of them must hold the nationality of an Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Member Association.
This decision aligns with AFC club competitions regulations for the 2023-24 season, where each club is allowed to have six foreign players, with one representing an AFC Member Association.
AFC Champions League Qualification:
The AIFF’s decision is motivated by the fact that Kalinga Super Cup winners will secure qualification for the AFC Champions League 2 in the 2024-25 season.
Tournament Structure:
Scheduled across two venues in Odisha, the Kalinga Super Cup will witness participation from both Indian Super League and I-League clubs.
Direct entry is granted to ISL clubs, while I-League clubs will compete in qualifiers to secure a spot in the group stage.
Sixteen teams will be divided into four groups, with the group winners progressing to the semi-finals.
The grand final is set to take place on January 28, 2024.
Draw Date and Venue:
The draw for the tournament groups is scheduled for December 18, 2023, at the Football House.
As the football fraternity eagerly awaits the Kalinga Super Cup, the tournament’s unique structure and the opportunity for clubs to compete on the Asian stage add an extra layer of excitement.
With the potential for AFC Champions League qualification, the stakes are higher than ever, making the Kalinga Super Cup a focal point for Indian football enthusiasts.
The AIFF’s decision to enhance the foreign player quota reflects a commitment to fostering a competitive and globally recognized football landscape in India. As clubs prepare for the tournament, the Kalinga Super Cup promises to be a showcase of talent and a stepping stone for Indian clubs onto the continental stage.
