ISL 2024-25: NorthEast United Aims for Playoffs Against Chennaiyin FC
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Synopsis
Chennaiyin FC faces NorthEast United FC in a crucial ISL 2024-25 match at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Chennai. The Highlanders aim for a playoff berth, while Chennaiyin seeks to end the season strongly.
Key Takeaways
- NorthEast United needs one win for playoff qualification.
- Chennaiyin aims for a strong finish after recent struggles.
- Both teams have historical stats favoring Chennaiyin at home.
- NorthEast United's recent form includes an unbeaten streak on the road.
- Chennaiyin leads in crossing efficiency this season.
Chennai, March 2 (NationPress) Chennaiyin FC is set to face NorthEast United FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Chennai during the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 this coming Monday.
The Highlanders currently sit in sixth place with 32 points from 22 games and require just one victory to secure their playoff position. Achieving three points in this match will elevate them to 35 points, a threshold that remains unchallenged for all teams except Mumbai City FC in the standings.
Chennaiyin FC has struggled recently, suffering three losses in their last five matches, which has eliminated them from the top-six contention, as they hold 24 points from 22 encounters.
Historically, Chennaiyin FC has dominated their home matches against the Highlanders, winning the last three encounters. A victory in this match would equal their longest home winning streak against a single opponent in the ISL.
On the other hand, NorthEast United FC remains unbeaten in their last five away games, securing victories in three of those. During this stretch, they have achieved a goal difference of +8, and a favorable result here would mark their longest unbeaten run away from home in the ISL.
With their recent triumph over Punjab FC in their last home match, a win in this fixture would represent consecutive home victories for Chennaiyin FC for the first time since April 2024.
Chennaiyin FC has excelled in crossing, with 19.6% of their crosses resulting in a shot (89 shots from 455 crosses) — the highest percentage in the league this season. They have also made the fourth-most crosses overall.
Meanwhile, NorthEast United FC has achieved three clean sheets in their last four away matches, totaling six shutouts in the 2024-25 season, ranking fifth in the league.
This season, NorthEast United FC has netted 10 goals from outside the box, their highest tally in a single ISL campaign. Only Hyderabad FC (13 in 2021-22), Mumbai City FC (11 in 2022-23), and Kerala Blasters FC (11 in 2021-22) have surpassed this figure in a single season.
The two teams have faced each other 21 times this season, with Chennaiyin FC winning nine games and NorthEast United FC claiming victory in seven, alongside five draws.
Chennaiyin FC head coach Owen Coyle emphasized the importance of finishing the season positively.
“Our home record this season has not been good. We want to finish strong for our supporters,” he remarked.
In contrast, NorthEast United FC assistant coach Naushad Moosa highlighted the need for a positive style of play.
“Chennaiyin FC comes into the match with nothing to lose. It’s crucial that we remain focused and play good football,” he stated.
