ISL 2023-24: Which teams can still qualify for playoffs?

Until last week, a total of six teams were in contention for that sixth spot in the ISL table.

The Indian Super League (ISL) is all set to enter its business end. Almost all the teams have played 21 games or more. Jamshedpur FC’s season is already over as they have played all of their 22 games and will finish their season in 10th position with 21 points to their name.

The remaining 11 teams will head into the final week starting on Wednesday. The 2023-24 season has been the longest and possibly the most competitive ISL season in the history of the league. Five teams have already confirmed a playoff berth for themselves with the sixth and the final spot still up for grabs. 

Apart from Hyderabad FC, all the teams were fighting for something or the other. Interestingly, six teams namely Chennaiyin FC, East Bengal, Bengaluru FC, Punjab FC, NorthEast United and Jamshedpur FC were still in contention for the final playoff spot until last week.

But, things have changed drastically as we head into the final gameweek of the season. Let us take a look at the remaining teams who can still qualify for the knockouts.

Chennaiyin FC

Chennaiyin FC have turned the tables around big time this season. From being at the bottom of the standings at the start of the season to being the frontrunners to make it to the playoffs, it has been a season to remember for Owen Coyle’s side. 

The Marina Machans defeated Mohun Bagan, Odisha FC, Jamshedpur FC, and NorthEast United to pick up four significant victories in their last five games, maintaining their hopes of making the playoffs. The equation looks very simple for Chennaiyin FC as they just need to win their remaining game in order to seal the last playoff spot. But, things will get very tricky if just in case they don’t win their last match and East Bengal does. 

East Bengal

East Bengal are also one of two teams who are eligible to qualify for the playoffs. The Red & Golds have seen a dramatic change in fortunes, thanks to Carles Cuadrat. They fought back when no one expected them to and pulled off crucial wins over Kerala Blasters and Bengaluru FC in their last two outings.

However, they don’t have their fate in their own hands and will have to wait for the result of Chennaiyin FC’s last game against FC Goa. But, prior to that they need to win their last game against Punjab FC and hope that Chennaiyin FC lose to FC Goa on Sunday.

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