It has been a season of redemption for Indian Super League (ISL) side NorthEast United FC. Once seen as a team that would fight bravely but fall short, they have now lived up to expectations, securing a top-four finish in the ISL 2024-25 league stage with 38 points, on par with third-placed Bengaluru FC. This is the first time since the 2020-21 season that the Highlanders have reached the playoffs.

What makes this achievement even more special is the journey they took to get here. From the highs of winning the Durand Cup to the early struggles in the league, to their incredible late-season surge, Juan Pedro Benali’s side have displayed they are here with a point to prove.

With a home playoff tie secured, where they will face Jamshedpur FC, they will once again fight for their dream of lifting the ISL Cup.

Regursence after an early setback

NorthEast United FC set the tone for the season with a stunning triumph in the Durand Cup, winning their first trophy in the club’s history. The victory gave their fans hopes of a successful ISL campaign but as the season began, reality struck hard.

Their ISL opener against debutants Mohammedan Sporting Club was a nervy one, but they held on for a hard-fought win. However, what followed was an early wake-up call. The Highlanders went winless in their next four games, losing twice. While they netted eight goals their defensive frailties were glaring as they conceded 10 times during that period.

The tide turned as NorthEast United FC wrapped up the year in style. They claimed five wins in their next eight games, showcasing resilience and fighting spirit. There were stumbles along the way, including consecutive defeats to East Bengal FC and Mohun Bagan Super Giant, but they bounced back in the best possible manner. Stunning away victories over Hyderabad FC and Mumbai City FC ensured they ended 2024 with momentum firmly in their corner.

The ups and down

As the calendar turned to 2025, NorthEast United FC took their game to another level. Embarking on an eight-match unbeaten streak, they solidified their position in the top half of the table. This impressive run significantly boosted their playoff aspirations. However, even the strongest teams face hurdles.

Their unbeaten streak was snapped by Mumbai City FC in Shillong, a tough blow at home. But in true Highlander spirit, they responded emphatically by defeating Jamshedpur FC at the JRD Tata Sports Complex which was proving to be one of the most difficult away venues in the league.

A narrow home loss to Bengaluru FC once again threatened to derail their progress, but NorthEast United FC knew what was at stake. With playoffs on the line, they delivered a composed 3-0 victory over Chennaiyin FC in their final away game of the season and qualified for the knockouts. And to cap off their incredible league stage, they put on a show to end their losing streak at Shillong’s Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium with a commanding 4-0 win over East Bengal FC.

The away form, in particular, became a defining feature of their campaign. With 22 points collected on the road which was the joint-best record alongside Mohun Bagan SG they proved to be a force to be reckoned with outside their home ground.

The fight for another silverware

Just two seasons ago, NorthEast United FC finished at the bottom of the table. Last season, they came agonizingly close to a playoff spot but fell short. This time, they’ve not only made it but done so in a manner that has signaled a shift in their trajectory under Benali.

For a club that started the season with a trophy, the hunger to add another is stronger than ever. The Highlanders have already proven they belong in the playoffs and now, it’s time to chase the ultimate prize.

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NorthEast United FC2024-2025