Real Kashmir FC Out of Super Cup Due to Visa Issues

Real Kashmir FC Exits Super Cup Due to Visa Issues, Dempo FC Steps In

New Delhi, Oct 16 (PTI) – I-League squad Real Kashmir FC announced their withdrawal from the upcoming Super Cup due to a setback in receiving visas for their international players, according to the club's statement on Thursday.

The team, affectionately known as the Snow Leopards, will be replaced by Dempo FC in the tournament, set to kick off in Goa on October 25.

Real Kashmir, the Srinagar-based team, was originally drawn into the 'Group of Death' alongside football heavyweights Mohun Bagan Super Giant, East Bengal FC, and Chennaiyin FC.

On their social media channels, Real Kashmir FC stated, "Due to unavoidable circumstances, we have withdrawn from the AIFF Super Cup 2025. The delay in visa procurement for our foreign players left us at a disadvantage in competing at full strength. This difficult decision was made with complete integrity."

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) confirmed via a tweet, "Real Kashmir FC have withdrawn from AIFF Super Cup 2025-26 as visas for their foreign players could not be secured. They will be replaced by Dempo SC."

The Snow Leopards were scheduled to face East Bengal in the tournament opener on October 25, followed by encounters against Mohun Bagan SG on October 28 and Chennaiyin FC on October 31 in Group A.