Goa Khabar: After two impressive performances against Indian football’s biggest names, Dempo Sports Club will look to close their Super Cup campaign on a strong note when they take on Chennaiyin FC at the GMC Stadium, Bambolim, on Friday 31 October 2025 at 4:30 PM.
The Goan side playing with an all-Indian squad largely drawn from their own academy, has captured hearts and headlines with their fearless brand of football. Following a thrilling 2–2 draw against East Bengal FC in the opening fixture and a hard-earned 0–0 stalemate against reigning ISL champions Mohun Bagan Super Giant, the Golden Eagles have shown remarkable character, discipline and tactical maturity on the national stage.
Head Coach Samir Naik, who has been instrumental in shaping the team’s identity, believes the group’s energy and commitment remain as high as ever heading into their final group fixture.
“The mood in the team is always positive. The boys enjoy every session and whether it’s training or matchday they are fully prepared. We’ll approach this game with the same focus and spirit we’ve shown so far,” said Naik.
Tomorrow’s clash also brings a personal dimension for the Dempo coach, as he faces Clifford Miranda, the Chennaiyin FC head coach and his long-time teammate at Dempo.
“Clifford is a very good friend, we spent 15 years together at this club, which itself is something special. We have gone head-to-head as coaches before and it’s always a tough but exciting contest,” he added.
Team captain Ariston Costa, who has been a pillar of leadership and composure in midfield, praised the team’s efforts so far and expressed determination to finish the group stage on a winning note.
“We were really excited to play against East Bengal and Mohun Bagan, and I think we did well. We could have done a bit better, but we gave our best. Now we are focused on the last match and want to end on a high,” said Costa.
Right-back Saiesh Bagkar, another product of the club’s development system, echoed the sentiment.
“Playing against big clubs has been a great opportunity. We are focused and prepared for Chennaiyin FC,” he stated.
Meanwhile, goalkeeper Ashish Sibi who stood tall against Mohun Bagan with a commanding performance between the posts, credited the team’s unity and discipline for their resilience.
“It’s always special to play against a big team, and we were well-prepared. Everyone stuck to the coach’s plan and gave 100%. Tomorrow, we go again strong as a team and as a group, aiming for the win,” Sibi said.
Dempo currently sit third in Group A with two points, behind East Bengal FC and Mohun Bagan SG both on four points. Chennaiyin FC, on the other hand are yet to open their account after suffering back-to-back defeats.
The Golden Eagles still got a chance to progress to knockouts but would need to beat Chennaiyin FC by 5 goals or more and hope the match between East Bengal and Mohun Bagan ends in a draw. If any of the Kolkata team wins, that team will progress.
Kick-off: 4:30 PM, October 31, 2025
Venue: GMC Stadium, Bambolim
Group A Standings (after two matches)
1. East Bengal FC – 4 pts
2. Mohun Bagan SG – 4 pts
3. Dempo SC – 2 pts
4. Chennaiyin FC – 0 pts
