December is as crucial as ever, with matches coming thick and fast throughout the month and no international break in sight. Teams will be pushing hard to secure a place in the top half of the table as the first half of the season draws to a close. With the winter transfer window opening next month, strong performances in December could be crucial in shaping future strategies for the clubs.

A total of 26 matches will be played, with Kolkata giants East Bengal FC and Mohammedan SC facing the busiest schedules, each with five fixtures.

We've highlighted some key December fixtures that are worth keeping an eye on.

Hyderabad FC vs FC Goa (Wednesday, December 4, 2024)

The clash between FC Goa and Hyderabad FC features a reunion of familiar faces.  Coach Manolo Márquez returns to face his former side, with whom he enjoyed a successful stint, including winning the ISL Cup.  Also making their return are Laxmikant Kattimani, Mohammad Yasir, Odei Onaindia, Borja Herrera and Sahil Tavora, who have donned the Hyderabad FC colours previously.

Last season saw FC Goa achieve a rare double over Hyderabad FC, a feat not accomplished since the 2019-20 season. As Márquez and his former players return to Hyderabad in early December, fans can anticipate a thrilling encounter as Hyderabad FC seek to reverse the previous outcomes.

Bengaluru FC vs Kerala Blasters FC (Saturday, December 7, 2024)

The showdown between southern rivals Bengaluru FC and Kerala Blasters FC is always electrifying, with their fierce rivalry growing more intense each year. Bengaluru FC boast a strong head-to-head record, and Kerala Blasters FC are yet to triumph at the Kanteerava Stadium, with five losses and only one draw to their name.

The intensity of this southern showdown is set to capture the attention of fans, making it one of the standout fixtures of the month. Under the new management, can the Blasters challenge their history and aim for a long-awaited victory at the Blues’ Den?

Mohun Bagan Super Giant vs Kerala Blasters FC (Saturday, December 14, 2024)

The showdown between Mohun Bagan Super Giant and Kerala Blasters FC is set to be a highlight of the month, featuring a history of intense matchups between these two sides.

Historically, Mohun Bagan SG has had the upper hand, but Kerala Blasters FC turned the tables last season with a 1-0 victory at the Mariners' home ground. The Mariners, however, responded with a dramatic 4-3 win in the return leg. With Kerala Blasters FC now under the stewardship of head coach Mikael Stahre, they will be eager to build on their previous success and challenge the Kolkata giants for dominance this season.

East Bengal FC vs Punjab FC (Tuesday, December 17, Kolkata)

One of December's standout fixtures is the clash between Punjab FC and East Bengal FC. Both teams came heartbreakingly close to the playoffs last season, with Punjab FC shattering East Bengal FC's ambitions in a decisive encounter.

This time, the stakes are even higher, as French playmaker Madih Talal—who played a starring role in Punjab FC's commanding 4-1 victory against the Red and Gold Brigade—returns to face his former team. Talal's switch to the opposite side adds a fascinating twist, making this rematch all the more compelling.

FC Goa vs Mohun Bagan Super Giant (Friday, December 20, Goa)

The two former ISL League Shield winners go head-to-head for the first time this season in what promises to be a captivating encounter. Despite Mohun Bagan SG having the upper hand in the head-to-head, the two sides were evenly matched last season, each winning one fixture.

The upcoming game at Fatorda is particularly intriguing, as it was the site where Mohun Bagan SG halted FC Goa's unbeaten run last season, disrupting their momentum. Forward Armando Sadiku will add an extra layer of interest, facing his former side in what could be a pivotal match for both teams.

Chennaiyin FC vs Bengaluru FC (Saturday, December 28, Chennai)

Bengaluru FC will also take on another southern rival, Chennaiyin FC, in their final fixture of the season this December. The Blues hold a notable advantage in this encounter, with eight victories to Chennaiyin FC’s four, and three matches ending in draws.

The rivalry was ignited by Chennaiyin FC’s dramatic 3-2 win over Bengaluru FC in the 2017-18 season final and has only intensified over the years. With both teams retaining their coaches and making impactful signings, anticipation is high for what promises to be another fiercely contested clash.