The 2024-2025 Indian Super League (ISL) season has begun with a thrilling display of unpredictability, last-minute goals, and unexpected results, making it one of the most exciting campaigns in recent years. With new teams, emerging talents, and a rising level of competition, the league has captivated fans from the opening matches, leaving no room for clear favorites.
In a season where the traditional powerhouses—Mohun Bagan Super Giants, Mumbai City FC, and Bengaluru FC—are usually expected to dominate, the story has shifted. This year, even mid-table teams and newly-promoted sides have caused major upsets. One of the biggest surprises has been the resurgence of NorthEast United, a team that has historically struggled but recently claimed its first major silverware. This success has ignited a new wave of competitiveness across the league, challenging the long-held dominance of the bigger clubs.
Odisha FC, another team experiencing a resurgence, underwent a complete overhaul last year under the management of Sergio Lobera. While they were expected to continue their upward trajectory, Punjab FC, a team promoted only last year, delivered a stunning upset by defeating both Odisha FC and Kerala Blasters in their early fixtures. These results have contributed to a growing sense of unpredictability, making this ISL season particularly exciting for fans.
One of the defining aspects of the ISL 2024-25 season has been the frequency of late goals. Out of the 38 goals scored in the first 12 matches, 13 came after the 85th minute, keeping teams on their toes until the very end. The most dramatic match so far was the encounter between Punjab FC and Kerala Blasters, where all three goals were scored after the 85th minute. Luka Majcen gave Punjab the lead in the 86th minute, Kerala’s Jesus Jimenez equalized in the 92nd minute, but just three minutes later, Filip Mrzljak secured the win for Punjab with a last-gasp goal.
The competitive nature of the league is no longer restricted to the established big clubs. Teams like Mohammedan SC, Punjab FC, and NorthEast United, which were once considered outsiders, have emerged as serious contenders. Mohammedan SC managed to hold FC Goa to a draw, while NorthEast United continued their strong form from the Durand Cup, although they narrowly lost to Mohun Bagan in a thrilling 3-2 defeat.
With the season still in its early stages, ISL 2024-25 promises to be one of the most fiercely contested and unpredictable seasons yet, with plenty more drama expected in the coming matches.
