The Indian Super League is reaching its climax, and the battle for the top six is hotter than ever. While Mumbai City FC, Mohun Bagan Super Giant, FC Goa, and Odisha FC have already secured their playoff berths, two crucial spots remain wide open. Let’s delve deeper into the current standings and analyze the challenges faced by each contender in the ISL 2023-24.
Almost There
Kerala Blasters (5th, 29 pts)
With 29 points from 18 matches, Kerala Blasters are in a comfortable position. They only need a single point from their remaining four games to mathematically secure a playoff berth. Ivan Vukomanovic’s men have a favorable schedule with a win against Jamshedpur FC potentially sealing their fate in the very next match.
In the Mix, But Need Help From Others
Punjab FC (6th, 21 pts):
Despite a sluggish start, Punjab FC has clawed its way back into contention. However, Staikos Vergetis’ team faces a daunting task. They need to win all their remaining matches (3) and hope for some slip-ups from Chennaiyin FC. Even then, qualification isn’t guaranteed.
Bengaluru FC (7th, 21 pts):
Sunil Chhetri and his Bengaluru FC squad find themselves in a similar situation to Punjab FC, needing a perfect run. However, their path is even trickier due to an inferior head-to-head record against both Punjab and Chennaiyin FC. This means they not only need to win all their remaining games but also require point drops from their direct competitors.
Jamshedpur FC (8th, 20 pts) & NorthEast United FC (9th, 20 pts):
Both Jamshedpur FC and NorthEast United FC face an uphill battle. They need a flawless run in their remaining matches (3) coupled with point drops from Bengaluru FC, Punjab FC, and each other. Realistically, qualification seems unlikely for these teams.
Facing an Uphill Battle:
East Bengal FC (10th, 18 pts):
The road to the playoffs is incredibly steep for East Bengal. They require a perfect run (win all remaining games) and significant slip-ups from multiple teams – Chennaiyin FC, Jamshedpur FC, and NorthEast United FC – to have a shot at sneaking into the top six. The odds are heavily stacked against them.
In Control of Their Destiny:
Chennaiyin FC (11th, 18 pts):
Unlike the other contenders, Chennaiyin FC holds the reins to their playoff fate. Their remaining fixtures offer a glimmer of hope. If Owen Coyle’s team manages to win all their remaining matches (4), they’ll secure a playoff spot due to their superior head-to-head record against potential point-sharing rivals like Bengaluru FC and Punjab FC.
The Final Stretch of ISL 2023-24 Promises Fireworks
With three rounds remaining, the battle for the final playoff positions is set to be a nail-biter. Every point, every tackle, and every goal will be crucial. Kerala Blasters seem on the cusp of qualification, while teams like Punjab FC and Bengaluru FC are hanging on by a thread. Can Chennaiyin FC capitalize on their favorable fixtures? Or will the likes of Jamshedpur FC and NorthEast United FC pull off a miracle? The upcoming matches will answer these questions and determine who gets to fight for the coveted ISL title.
Can’t get enough of sports? Check out Sport Circle’s Youtube Channel here. Want more bite-sized content? Follow us on Instagram and Twitter!