The penultimate Matchweek of the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season is here, with the playoffs qualification on the knife's edge for mid-table teams.

Despite Mohun Bagan Super Giant's League Shield triumph two games to spare, to become the first team to defend the Shield, the final stretch of the ongoing season will be as exciting as ever given the two remaining top-six spots for which four teams are still vying.

This forthcoming matchweek could be decisive for teams like Mumbai City FC, NorthEast United FC, Odisha FC, and East Bengal FC, as dropping points might either see them out of the playoff race.

East Bengal FC are set to kick off this week with a do-or-die fixture against Bengaluru FC, while NorthEast United FC aim to secure their spot in the playoffs when they travel to Chennai for the second game.

The following games will see FC Goa taking on Mohammedan Sporting Club and Jamshedpur FC facing Odisha FC at the Furnace. Mumbai City FC will feature in the final game of this week, where the Islanders aim to seal their spot in the top six, who are just one point behind, to qualify for the playoffs.

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For strategic fantasy football managers looking for players for the short term, we've pinpointed five players with low ownership who offer high potential rewards for Matchweek 25.

Borja Herrera (FC Goa) – 7% ownership

Borja Herrera has been a regular starter for FC Goa and is a genuine point picker for the fantasy managers. The Spaniard has been showing his prowess with his smart ball distribution, ability to create chances and score in crunch moments, adding a different dimension to the Gaurs’ style of play.

With FC Goa hosting Mohammedan Sporting Club, who have been struggling in defensive organizations, an all-round option like Herrera could prove to be the ultimate differential pick this week.

Nestor Albiach (NorthEast United FC) – 5% ownership

Albiach is the go-to man for NorthEast United FC when it comes to orchestrating goal-scoring moves or finding the back of the net in difficult situations. Despite being placed in the top six throughout the season, the Highlanders’ recent off form brings their playoff qualification into a tense scenario, as dropping points in the remaining league stage fixtures could see them out of playoff contention.

The Spanish playmaker will aim to take the charge in this demanding phase of the situation to help the Highlanders cross the line and also provide crucial points for the fantasy managers.

Isak Ralte (Odisha FC) – 3% ownership

With Odisha FC’s playoff qualification at stake and their recent dip in form, Isak Ralte could emerge as the silver lining for the Kalinga Warriors in their must-win fixture against Jamshedpur FC.

Ralte has chipped in with crucial goals since his return from injury and will be looking to end the season on a high as Odisha FC play their final league game.

Raphael Messi Bouli (East Bengal FC) – 1% ownership

Since joining East Bengal FC during the winter transfer window, Raphael Messi Bouli has been impactful for the Red and Gold Brigade and is enjoying his second stint in the ISL. The Cameroonian forward scored the winner against Hyderabad FC in their last home game and also provided an assist against Mohammedan Sporting Club last month. Given Bouli’s effectiveness in build-up play and his sharp shooting abilities, he has an opportunity to make a greater impact against Bengaluru FC.

Stefan Sapic (Hyderabad FC) – 1% ownership

Despite Hyderabad FC finding themselves at the bottom half of the league table, the team’s performance has been improving since Shameel Chembakath took over the charges as the interim head coach.

Stefan Sapic has been an integral part of Hyderabad FC’s defensive lineup, boasting a great partnership with Alex Saji at the backline. The Serbian defender, who is the second highest fantasy point owner (84) among the Hyderabad FC players, could be an intelligent pick for your side considering his decisive defensive points and his knack for scoring goals.

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2024-2025