The excitement surrounding the Indian Super League (ISL) intensifies as the playoffs draw closer. Mumbai City, Mohun Bagan, Goa, Odisha, Kerala Blasters, and now, Chennaiyin FC have clinched their playoff berths, setting the stage for a thrilling conclusion.
The first round of the playoffs kicks off on April 19-20, progressing to the semi-finals on April 23-24 and April 28-29. The tournament’s climax, the final match, is anticipated for May 4.
ISL 2023-24 Playoffs Timetable
- First Round: April 19-20, 2024
- Semi-finals (1st Leg): April 23-24, 2024
- Semi-finals (2nd Leg): April 28-29, 2024
- Championship Match: May 4, 2024
நான் வீழ்வேன் என்று நினைத்தாயோ? 😌❤🔥 #AllInForChennaiyin #ISL10 #ISL pic.twitter.com/5ms6cads5e
— Chennaiyin F.C. (@ChennaiyinFC) April 10, 2024
Intensifying race for the League Shield
The competition for the League Shield intensifies with Mumbai City FC and Mohun Bagan Super Giant both in tight contention for the top honor. The race is not only about clinching the top position but also about securing beneficial playoff seeding.
FC Goa, while no longer in contention for the League Shield, remains in pursuit of the advantageous second place, which would allow them a direct path to the semi-finals, avoiding the initial knockout round.
The battle for the Shield will go right down to the wire as Mumbai and Mohun Bagan will face each other in the final game of the season at the Salt Lake Stadium, in what could be another final in itself.
ISL 2023-24 Playoff Competition Format
During the knockout stage, the third-place finisher in the league standings will compete against the sixth-place team, and the team in fourth will play against the fifth in a single elimination match. The winners of these contests will then challenge the top two teams in the league standings in a two-legged semi-final matchup. The victorious teams from the semi-finals will then contend in the grand finale of the Indian Super League.