Matchweek 8 of the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season highlighted the fierce competitiveness of the league, with even the struggling teams putting up tough fights.

Despite just 14 goals being scored across six matches, the action remained captivating as four of those games ended in draws. Teams like Hyderabad FC and East Bengal FC secured valuable points, giving their campaigns a much-needed boost.

Hyderabad FC were one of only two sides to claim a victory in this round, defeating Kerala Blasters FC in Kochi. Meanwhile, FC Goa pulled off a remarkable comeback to edge past Punjab FC.

As we wrap up Matchweek 8, here is a look at the key takeaways.

FC Goa turning the corner

FC Goa’s resurgence in Matchweek 8 has seen them climb back into the top half of the table, with two consecutive victories restoring their confidence. A key factor in this turnaround has been their defensive improvement, especially with the return of Sandesh Jhingan.

After conceding 12 goals in their opening six matches, the Gaurs have tightened up at the back, allowing just one goal in their last two wins, against Bengaluru FC and Punjab FC.

These victories are particularly impressive as they’ve come against two of the season's strongest teams so far. FC Goa handed Bengaluru FC their first defeat of the campaign, and followed that up by defeating Punjab FC, who were also enjoying a strong start to the season. The Shers still hold the second-best defensive record after Bengaluru FC, showing how it has been easy for teams to score against them.

From just one win in their opening six games, FC Goa now have three wins in eight games and they are just five points behind league leaders Bengaluru FC. This swift turnaround is a promising sign as they head into the international break, with momentum on their side.

Hyderabad FC prove they can beat anyone

One of the standout results of Matchweek 8 was Hyderabad FC’s stunning 2-1 victory over Kerala Blasters FC in Kochi. What made this win even more remarkable was the way Thangboi Singto’s side mounted a superb comeback after conceding the first goal, showing resilience and character to leave with all three points.

This victory marked Hyderabad FC’s second win of the season, surpassing last season’s entire tally, where they managed just one win throughout the campaign. To beat Kerala Blasters FC, especially at home, where the Yellow Army has been dominant for the past few seasons was a significant achievement and demonstrated that Hyderabad FC are capable of going toe to toe with any team.

While Kerala Blasters FC arguably had the better chances overall, Hyderabad FC held firm under immense pressure from the hosts till the end.

Both of Hyderabad’s victories this season have come away from home, proving that they can deliver results regardless of the venue or opposition. This win in Kochi sends a strong message that Hyderabad FC are no longer to be taken lightly.

Young Nathan Rodrigues making his mark

Mumbai City FC returned home with a crucial point in Chennai with defender Nathan Rodrigues scoring the all-important equaliser. This was Rodrigues' second goal of the season and the full-back is proving to be one of the standout performers for the Islanders in what is turning out to be a breakthrough campaign for him.

Rodrigues is now Mumbai City FC’s second-highest scorer this season, alongside Yoell van Nieff, with two goals in just four starts. His attacking contribution has been one of his most impressive qualities, and he showcased that once again with his goal against Chennaiyin FC. Despite not being the tallest player on the team, Rodrigues rose above the defenders to meet a cross and power a looping header into the far corner.

Currently, Rodrigues appears to be the first-choice left-back for Mumbai City FC, and if he continues to take his chances and add value to the attack, he could prove to be a key player for the Islanders as the season progresses.

Ajaraie keeps soaring

Another game, another Alaaeddine Ajaraie goal.

The NorthEast United FC forward continued his remarkable goalscoring form, extending his streak to eight consecutive games with a brace against Bengaluru FC. His two goals not only earned his team a crucial point but also saw him equal Kalu Uche’s long-standing record for the longest goalscoring streak in ISL history.

Ajaraie’s performance was full of milestones. With his brace, he shattered more records, reaffirming his status as one of the league’s most prolific strikers at present.

While his second goal was a simple tap-in, his first was a stunning display of his quality. He controlled a long ball with a swift touch before firing past the Bengaluru FC keeper, reminding everyone of his clinical finishing.

Although Bengaluru FC dominated much of the second half, Ajaraie still had a chance to complete his hat-trick with the limited opportunities he was given. With 10 goals this season, he has now scored more than half of NorthEast United FC’s total tally of 19 goals, underlining his importance to the team’s attack.

Last season, NorthEast United FC's leading top scorers only managed five goals all season. This season, Ajaraie has already doubled that tally, with 10 goals to his name. If he continues his prolific form, opposition teams will find it difficult to silence NorthEast United FC's attack.

East Bengal FC’s show of grit

East Bengal FC earned their first point of the season in a remarkable defensive display, holding Mohammedan SC to a goalless draw despite being reduced to 10 men. The Red & Golds rose to the occasion in what was a high-stakes derby, absorbing relentless pressure throughout the match. In the end, the result felt almost like a victory given the way they fought back after the early setbacks.

This match was historic, as it marked the first time in ISL history that two red cards were issued to a team in the first half. Few would have expected East Bengal FC to hold on to a clean sheet under such circumstances, but Oscar Bruzon’s side delivered a performance that defied the odds.

It was a true team effort, with goalkeeper Prabhsukhan Gill making key saves and the midfielders, along with the forwards, working tirelessly to protect their goal alongside the defenders.

Despite still sitting at the bottom of the table, this performance was a huge morale booster and suggested that better things are on the horizon for East Bengal FC after the international break.

Related tags:

Hyderabad FCAlaaeddine AjaraieEast Bengal FCFC GoaMumbai City FCNorthEast United FC2024-2025