ISL 2024-25: Playoffs fixtures and venues for knockouts decided

Bengaluru and Shillong are all set to host the one-legged ISL playoff games.

After an intense Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 league stage, the six teams in the playoffs have finally been confirmed. Following Mumbai City FC’s victory over Bengaluru FC, all the playoff spots have been officially sealed.

Across 26 match weeks, the season delivered thrilling goals, razor-thin margins, and relentless battles where every point and goal difference mattered. Out of 13 competing teams, these six sides have fought with everything they had to secure their place in the knockout rounds.

The playoffs will see the teams ranked 3rd to 6th compete in a one-legged fixture for a place in the semifinals. Awaiting them are league shield winners Mohun Bagan Super Giant and second-placed FC Goa, both of whom have secured a direct berth in the last four. With the ISL title now within reach, the battle ahead promises high drama and unforgettable moments for the fans.

Bengaluru all set to welcome the reigning ISL title holders

The first playoff fixture of the ISL 2024-25 season is scheduled for March 29, with Bengaluru FC set to face off against Mumbai City FC. Despite finishing level on points with NorthEast United FC and Jamshedpur FC, Bengaluru secured 3rd place due to a superior goal difference, granting them the crucial home advantage for this knockout clash.

This fixture will be a repeat of their recent league encounter, where Mumbai City FC triumphed 2-0, adding an extra layer of intensity to the upcoming battle. Head coach Gerard Zaragoza’s Bengaluru FC will be eager to turn the tables this time, banking on the unwavering support of the West Block Blues.

Meanwhile, Mumbai City FC will be determined to defend their reputation as former ISL Shield winners and push through to the semifinals. With both sides hungry for success, this clash promises high stakes and fierce competition.

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Khalid Jamil eyes redemption against the Highlanders

The second playoff fixture will witness Jamshedpur FC face a daunting away challenge against Northeast United FC on March 30. Although both teams ended the league stage level on points, NorthEast United FC’s superior head-to-head record earned them the right to host the playoff match.

Fortunately for the Red Miners, the fixture will be held in Shillong rather than Guwahati—the site of their humiliating 5-0 defeat at the hands of the Highlanders during the league campaign. Juan Pedro Benali’s men will be brimming with confidence, having already completed a league double over Jamshedpur FC, and will be eyeing a hat trick of victories to seal their spot in the semifinals.

Meanwhile, Khalid Jamil will be determined to exact revenge against his former club, aiming to overturn Jamshedpur’s misfortunes and guide his team into the semi-finals. With pride and a lucrative semifinal berth at stake, this fixture promises a fierce battle in the heart of Shillong.

The Mariners and Gaurs will be keeping a close eye on the qualifiers.

The semi-final stage of promises to feature thrilling two-legged encounters, with Mohun Bagan Super Giant set to face the winner of the Eastern Derby between NorthEast United FC and Jamshedpur FC. This all-Eastern clash ensures that a team from the Eastern Zone will secure a spot in the final, adding extra intensity to the battle.

Kolkata will host either NorthEast United or their neighbours Jamshedpur, setting the stage for a fiercely contested showdown steeped in regional pride. On the other hand, FC Goa will lock horns with the winner of the playoff between Bengaluru FC and Mumbai City FC.

This fixture carries its own weight of history, especially for FC Goa, who will be seeking redemption after last season’s heartbreak when Mumbai City FC crushed their final hopes by scoring three stoppage-time goals.

With old rivalries reigniting and a place in the final at stake, both semi-finals promise high-octane drama and unrelenting passion for the adoring ISL fans.

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