The 2024-25 Indian Super League (ISL) season has been full of excitement, but for some teams, the inability to seal wins after taking the lead has been a significant challenge. While comebacks have provided plenty of entertainment, certain sides have found themselves losing ground after initially being in control.

Also See: A look at the xG and xGA metrics of all teams so far in ISL 2024-25

With the league resuming this Saturday and no further breaks until the end of the league phase, let’s take a look at the top five teams that have dropped the most points from winning positions and explore the potential consequences for their season.

NorthEast United FC – 12 Points

The Highlanders have set a clear trend of starting strong this season. NorthEast United FC have taken the lead in all eight of their opening matches, showcasing their attacking intent early on. However, their inability to hold onto these leads has been a recurring concern. Juan Pedro Benali’s side has already dropped 12 points from winning positions, including defeats to Mohun Bagan Super Giant and Chennaiyin FC, and draws against Kerala Blasters FC, FC Goa, and Bengaluru FC. Alarmingly, in matches against Mohun Bagan SG, FC Goa, and Bengaluru FC, they surrendered the lead twice in a single game.

Despite these setbacks, NorthEast United FC remain third in the table with 12 points from eight matches. However, unless they resolve this vulnerability, they may look back on this season with regret, knowing they were capable of achieving so much more.

Chennaiyin FC – 7 Points

Chennaiyin FC have emerged as one of the most unpredictable teams this season. While they lead the league in points gained from losing positions, they also rank second for points dropped from winning positions. The Marina Machans have let seven points slip through their grasp in just eight matches.

Also See: Teams that have recovered the most points from losing positions in ISL 2024-25

Owen Coyle’s side started strongly against Punjab FC, taking an early lead, but couldn’t handle the relentless pressure from the Shers, ultimately suffering a 3-2 defeat. Similarly, they struck first against FC Goa and Mumbai City FC but failed to capitalize on their advantage, settling for draws on both occasions.

FC Goa – 7 Points

If FC Goa are to compete for the top honours alongside the league's elite, they must address their persistent issue of squandering leads. Head coach Manolo Marquez is well aware of this vulnerability and will undoubtedly focus on fixing it after the international break. The return of key players like Sandesh Jhingan is expected to strengthen their defence and bolster their confidence in this area.

The Gaurs suffered a 2-1 loss to Jamshedpur FC after leading in the first half. In addition, they were held to 2-2 draws by Chennaiyin FC and NorthEast United FC, both of which saw them give up leads at critical moments.

Odisha FC – 7 Points

Odisha FC have struggled to find their rhythm this season, with a recurring inability to hold onto leads proving costly. They currently sit ninth in the points table after eight matchweeks, with nine points, including just two wins.

The Kalinga Warriors, who went unbeaten at home last season, saw their proud streak end in the opening matchweek as they fell to Chennaiyin FC despite taking an early lead. Sergio Lobera’s men have also let crucial points slip in tough matchups, surrendering their advantage in 1-1 draws against Mumbai City FC and Mohun Bagan Super Giant.

Kerala Blasters FC – 5 Points

Kerala Blasters FC have struggled to maintain defensive stability, failing to keep a clean sheet after eight games. Moreover, protecting their leads has been a persistent issue for Mikael Stahre’s side, resulting in several dropped points.

The Blasters held a two-goal advantage against Odisha FC away from home, thanks to standout performances from Noah Sadaoui and Jesus Jimenez. However, they were unable to preserve their lead, conceding twice in the final seven minutes to settle for a 2-2 draw. In their final match before the November break, they took the lead against Hyderabad FC at home, but Andrei Alba’s brace saw them slip another three points, leaving them frustrated once again.