NorthEast United FC has experienced a season of redemption in the Indian Super League (ISL). Once regarded as a team that fought valiantly but fell short, they have now met expectations by securing a top-four finish in the ISL 2024-25 league stage with 38 points—level with third-placed Bengaluru FC. This marks their first playoff appearance since the 2020-21 season.
What makes this feat even more remarkable is their journey to get here. From the triumph of winning the Durand Cup to early league struggles and a stunning late-season resurgence, Juan Pedro Benali’s squad has proven they are here with a statement to make.
With a home playoff tie secured against Jamshedpur FC, NorthEast United FC will once again battle for their dream of lifting the ISL 2024/25 Cup.
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Resilience Amid Early Struggles
NorthEast United FC began their season on a high, clinching their first-ever trophy with a historic Durand Cup triumph. The victory ignited hopes of a strong ISL campaign, but reality soon set in.
Their league opener against debutants Mohammedan Sporting Club was a tense affair, but they managed to grind out a hard-fought win. However, their momentum quickly faltered, going winless in the next four games, including two defeats. While they found the net eight times, defensive vulnerabilities were exposed as they conceded 10 goals during this period.
Despite the setback, the Highlanders turned things around as the year drew to a close. Winning five of their next eight matches, they displayed resilience and determination. Though they stumbled with consecutive losses to East Bengal FC and Mohun Bagan Super Giant, they responded emphatically. Back-to-back away wins against Hyderabad FC and Mumbai City FC ensured they ended 2024 with momentum firmly on their side.
Highs, Lows, and a Playoff Push
As 2025 began, NorthEast United FC elevated their game, embarking on an eight-match unbeaten streak that firmly established their place in the top half of the table and strengthened their playoff ambitions. However, even the best teams encounter obstacles.
Their impressive run was halted by Mumbai City FC in Shillong, a tough home defeat. But in true Highlander spirit, they bounced back with a crucial away win over Jamshedpur FC at the formidable JRD Tata Sports Complex.
A narrow home loss to Bengaluru FC threatened to derail their momentum, but NorthEast United FC remained unfazed. With a playoff spot on the line, they produced a composed 3-0 victory over Chennaiyin FC in their final away fixture, securing their knockout berth. They then wrapped up the league stage in style, ending their losing streak at Shillong’s Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium with a commanding 4-0 triumph over East Bengal FC.
Their exceptional away form became a defining trait of their campaign. Collecting 22 points on the road—joint-best alongside Mohun Bagan SG—they proved to be a formidable force away from home.
Chasing Glory: The Hunt for Another Trophy
Just two seasons ago, NorthEast United FC found themselves at the bottom of the table. Last season, they came heartbreakingly close to a playoff spot but fell short. This time, they haven’t just secured a place in the knockouts—they’ve done it in a way that marks a clear shift in their journey under Benali.
Having started the season with silverware, the hunger to add another trophy is stronger than ever. The Highlanders have already proven they deserve to be in the playoffs—now, they set their sights on the ultimate prize.
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FAQs
How did NorthEast United FC perform in the ISL 2024-25 league stage?
NorthEast United FC secured a top-four finish with 38 points, qualifying for the playoffs for the first time since 2020-21.
What was NorthEast United FC’s biggest achievement this season?
They won their first-ever trophy by clinching the Durand Cup and followed it up with a strong ISL campaign, making the playoffs.
How did NorthEast United FC turn their season around?
After a rough start, they went on an eight-match unbeaten streak and collected 22 points on the road, the joint-best away record alongside Mohun Bagan SG.
Who will NorthEast United FC face in the ISL playoffs?
They have secured a home playoff tie against Jamshedpur FC, aiming to continue their dream run.
Can NorthEast United FC win the ISL Cup?
With their remarkable resurgence and strong performances, the Highlanders are serious contenders for the title this season.
