Mumbai City FC stay at number two position on the ISL points table after a 1-1 draw with FC Goa in Mumbai on Wednesday. Vikram Pratap Singh found the net from a Vipin Singh cross at the start of the second half. However, it was Mohammed Yasir who pulled things back for FC Goa with a stunning strike from left of the box in the 61st minute. Both teams had their chances later in the match but it was Borja Herrera who nearly put the Gaurs back in the winning track but hit the bar in the dying minute. Lachenpa was solid as ever for the Islanders as well.
Mumbai City with 32 points now have closed the gap with Odisha FC while the Gaurs have peeped over Kerala to move to number four position with 29 points.
This was Koushik Biswas bringing you all the updates of the Mumbai City vs FC Goa match in Mumbai. For the highlights and best moments of the match read our LIVE Blog below. Until next time, thank you and good night.
Goa continue to look for a win. The Islanders stay at the number two position in the points table. Borja tried his best in the dying minutes by Lachenpa was too good to be beaten.
Borja misses a chance inside the box and skies the ball over the goal. Brison with the cross this time which first was blocked by Mehtab and the ball fell right on to the feets of Borja
It is goalless here in Mumbai despite few chances for both teams. Mumbai looked like the better team and creating more chances. However, the biggest chance of the game came to Rowling Borges who hit the crossbar from a Noah Sadaoui cross.
Feb 28, 2024, 2:46 PM
45' | 2 minutes added |Â MCFC 0-0 FCG
2 minutes added to the first 45 minutes.
Feb 28, 2024, 2:44 PM
43' | Freekick for Mumbai |Â MCFC 0-0 FCG
van Nieff takes the free kick and looked for Rhaul Bheke. However, it was too long for Bheke to get around the ball.
33' | Tiri with a huge intervention |Â MCFC 0-0 FCG
Tiri makes a huge intervention inside the box as Carlos were in position to find the net.
Feb 28, 2024, 2:30 PM
27' | van Nieff's shot is saved by Dheeraj | MCFC 0-0 FCG
van Nieff took a chance and his long range left-footed shot nearly went in. Dheeraj had to make a dive to make the save.
Feb 28, 2024, 2:26 PM
24' | Rowling hits the woodwork |Â MCFC 0-0 FCG
Rowling hits the crossbar with the header from a Noah Sadaoui cross. Rowling did well to get past Akash Mishra to get the header in.
Feb 28, 2024, 2:24 PM
23' | Dheeraj nearly messed it up |Â MCFC 0-0 FCG
Dheera could not got full hold of the ball from Vikram Pratap and Guarrotxena nearly headed the ball in.
Feb 28, 2024, 2:23 PM
22' | Dheeraj comes in to make a save |Â MCFC 0-0 FCG
Dheeraj Singh comes out of the box and makes a diving save as Noguera looked for Bheke inside the box.
Feb 28, 2024, 2:20 PM
19' | Yellow card |Â MCFC 0-0 FCG
Yellow card for Seriton for a foul on Akash Mishra.
Feb 28, 2024, 2:20 PM
18' | Vikram misses the header |Â MCFC 0-0 FCG
Vipin cut inside the final third and looped a pass to Vikram on the left, who narrowly missed the header.
Feb 28, 2024, 2:16 PM
15' | Brilliant Lachenpa makes two saves |Â MCFC 0-0 FCG
Lachenpa first punches the corner out of danger and then saves a shot from Carlos Martinex from the left of the box.
Feb 28, 2024, 2:13 PM
12' | Vikram partnering with Akash on the left |MCFC 0-0 FCG
Vikram Pratap along with Akash Mishra trying to creat some pace and area on the left as he tried to whip a cross towards Iker Guarrotxena. However, Seriton was there to head the ball out.
Feb 28, 2024, 2:08 PM
7' | Battle of the midfield from the start |Â MCFC 0-0 FCG
The players are battling for position in the midfield with less entries in the final third. Meanwhile, the Mumbai fans have started throwing abusing songs at FC Goa. It will surely get hotter here.
Feb 28, 2024, 2:03 PM
2' | Save from Dheeraj Singh | MCFC 0-0 FCG
A curling free-kick from Iker Guarrotxena and it is saved by a diving Dheeraj in the far post.
Mumbai City FC: Phurba Tempa Lachenpa, Akash Mishra, Tiri, Mehtab Singh, Rahul Bheke, Alberto Noguera, Yoell van Nieff, Jayesh Rane, Vikram Paratp Singh, Bipin Singh, Iker Guarrotxena
FC Goa: Dheeraj Singh, Seriton Fernandes, Odei Onaindia, Nim Dorjee Tamang, Jay Gupta, Mohammed Yasir, Rowling Borges, Paulo Retre, Boris Thangjam, C.M Rodriguez, Naoh Sadaoui
ð¨ ð§ððð ð¡ððªð¦ ð¨
Petr Kratky makes 3ï¸â£ changes across the field as Tiri, Jayesh and Bipin return to the starting XI against FC Goa ðª
What did the coaches say in the pre-match press conference?Â
"We are very happy with the entire squad. The players who come in, they make an impact and the young players blend well with the experienced stars too," Mumbai City FC head coach Petr Kratky told the media.
"If we win tomorrow (on Wednesday), we are second with one game less than the first-placed Odisha FC. How is the mood? Of course, it's always better when you win rather than when you lose, isnt' it?" FC Goa head coach Manolo Marquez expressed in the pre-match post conference.
Feb 28, 2024, 10:46 AM
Forms in last five games
Mumbai City FC won four of their last five games in Indian Super League 2023-24 and only lost once against Jamshedpur FC. On the contrary, FC Goa lost three of their last five games in the league and won just once against Hyderabad FC.
Feb 28, 2024, 10:46 AM
Mumbai City vs FC Goa Head-to-head stats
Matches â 23
Mumbai City FC â 10
FC Goa â 7
Draws â 6
Feb 28, 2024, 10:46 AM
Hello and welcome to another Indian Super League (ISL) coverage of Sportz Point. Tonight, we have one of the biggest games of the season as Mumbai City FC host FC Goa in Mumbai. As the battle for the shield continues, we will bring you all the updates, news and free commentary of the Mumbai City vs FC Goa match at the Mumbai Football Arena.
Mumbai are currently placed at number two position in the points table, just one point behind table topper Odisha FC. On the other hand, the Gaurs are at number five position, one point behind Kerala. So, enjoy the coverage of one of the most intense battles of Indian football.
Match Details:
Match: Mumbai City FC vs FC Goa
Date: 28-02-2024
Time: 7.30 pm IST
Venue: Mumbai Football Arena
How to watch the match?
Fans can watch the Mumbai City vs FC Goa match LIVE on TV Channels like Sports18 Khel (Hindi), Sports18 1 HD (English), Sports18 3 SD (English, Hindi, Malayalam and Bengali), VH1 SD & HD (English), Surya Movies (Malayalam), News 18 Kerala (Malayalam â select matches) & DD Bangla (Bengali).
Moeover, fans can wacth the match on Jio Cinema App and Website as well.
Discover the most promising U-21 footballers in India who are set to define the future of Indian football. Know about their current status and journeys.
The dynamic landscape of Indian football is on the cusp of a new era and set to be carried forward by a generation of young talent. Finding the most promising U-21 footballers in India is the key, as they are the ones who will decide where we stand next.
Let's take a look at some special youngsters who are not only catching the eye of coaches, but are also inspiring the youth with their skill, dedication and ambition.
Suhail Ahmad Bhat (20 years)
Suhail Ahmad Bhat practicing with the Blue Tigers. Image | Facebook
Born: 8 April 2005, Jammu and Kashmir
Position: Centre-Forward
Current team: Mohun Bagan SG
Suhail Ahmad Bhat is a 20-year-old promising young talent, who has quickly become a name to watch in Indian football. He made his mark with the Indian Arrows, and his progress led him to Mohun Bagan Super Giant.
He has consistently proved his ability to find the net and did well across various competitions like the Durand Cup, CFL, and Super Cup. His journey began with early recognition, even being featured by The Guardian as one of the best young talents globally born in 2005.
Suhail already represented India in U-16 (where he scored on his debut match) and U-23 level. He also recently got called up for the senior India national team and debuted in 2025.
Joseph Sunny captured between practice sessions for Hyderabad FC. Image | X
Born: 13 October 2003, Kerala
Position: Forward
Current team: Hyderabad FC
Joseph Sunny is a tall attacking striker who has emerged as a key player for Hyderabad FC. His strength lies in his style of play, which turns out to be really impactful for the team. He played in tournaments like the Kalinga Super Cup and I-League and made his ISL debut in the 2023-24 season.
Sunny has made his deserving spot in the playing XI for Hyderabad, featuring in most of their matches. His ISL performances highlighted his eagerness to contribute to the team and also his rising stature.
Korou Singh Thingujam (18 years)
Korou Singh Thingujam playing for Kerala Blasters in ISL. Image | Instagram
Born: 3 December 2006, Manipur
Position: Second Striker, Right Winger
Current Team: Kerala Blasters FC
Korou Singh Thingujam has rapidly risen through the ranks at Kerala Blasters FC, showcasing exceptional skill as a second striker. He initially made an impact by scoring on his debut with the reserve team, and then quickly earned his spot in the senior team.
His ISL debut in 2024 made him one of the youngest players to do so. He also got an extension of contract for Kerala Blasters till 2029, which highlights the team's faith in his abilities.
Korou was a part of the Indian U-17 team that won the 2022 SAFF U-17 Championship, and even scored in the final. He also got to play for the U-20 side in 2024, scoring 1 goal in 5 appearances.
Mohammed Sanan (21 years)
Mohammed Sanan playing for Jamshedpur FC in ISL. Image | Instagram
Born: 5 April 2004, Kerala
Position: Left Winger
Current Team: Jamshedpur FC
Mohammed Sanan is a talented young left-winger, who emerged from the Reliance Foundation Young Champs' (RFYC) academy. His strong foundation saw him get a long-term deal with Jamshedpur FC.
Sanan quickly made his way to the senior team, starting with the Durand Cup and later making it to the ISL. He is the most reliable young performer in the team, who also appeared in two games for the India U-23 team in his international career.
Bikash Yumnam is a 21-year-old solid centre-back who has established himself as a decent defensive presence. He has gained experience playing for clubs like Chennaiyin FC and Punjab FC, before joining Kerala Blasters FC.
He seems to constantly develop his game, along with focusing on positioning, tackling, and aerial abilities.
Bikash was a part of the 2022 SAFF U-20 Championship winning squad of India and was also a part of the U-16 team that reached the quarterfinals of the 2018AFC U-18 Championship in Malaysia.
Tekcham Abhishek Singh (20 years)
Tekcham Abhishek Singh playing for Punjab FC. Image | Transfermarkt
Born: 2 January 2005, Manipur
Position: Left back
Current team: Punjab FC
Tekcham Abhishek Singh is a highly praised left-back, known for his defensive solidity and energetic run. His journey began at Minerva Academy, from where he moved to Punjab FC and became a crucial part of the team.
Abhishek's impressive ISL performance led to a tug-of-war between major Kolkata clubs for his signature, ultimately leading his move to Mohun Bagan SG. He will soon be joining their side and will continue to play brilliant football.
After playing for the U-20 and U-23 Indian teams, he got a call-up to the senior national team under coach Manolo Marquez. He has already made his debut with the team and has a long way to go.
Nikhil Barla (21 years)
Nikhil Barla in ISL. Image | X
Born: 5 August 2003, Jharkhand
Position: Right Back
Current team: Jamshedpur FC
Nikhil Barla is a 21-year-old emerging talent who trained at the prestigious TATA Football Academy. He began his journey with Jamshedpur FC's youth and reserve teams, where he worked tremendously hard to transition into the senior squad.
Barla quickly became an integral part of their defence and gained significant experience playing in the ISL. This hardworking boy is steadily climbing towards his dream with immense discipline and dedication.
His consistent performance earned him a place in India's U-23 probable squad, and there's more to come!
Vinith Venkatesh celebrates a goal for Bengaluru FC. Image | NDTV Sports
Born: 31 July 2005, Bengaluru
Position: Midfielder
Current team: Bengaluru FC
Vinith Venkatesh made his senior debut in the 2024 Durand Cup for Bengaluru FC, where he also scored against Mohun Bagan SG in the semi-finals. He made his ISL debut in the same year, potentially growing his skills while playing alongside experienced footballers.
Bengaluru FC is a club known for youth development, and the inclusion of a talented youngster like Vinith makes the vision for the future even brighter. As a midfielder, he contributes to ball distribution, tackling, and both offensive and defensive transitions.
Sahil Poonia (19 years)
Sahil Poonia in his debut ISL match for Bengaluru FC. Image | Instagram
Born: 8 March 2006, Haryana
Position: Goalkeeper
Current team: Bengaluru FC
Sahil Poonia is another 19-year-old young talent who represents Bengaluru FC as a goalkeeper. He hails from Haryana and has worked really hard to come his far and keep up with the dynamic football world.
Poonia has already featured for India at various youth levels, including U-17, U-20, and U-23 teams, which is a strong indicator of his potential as a future national team goalkeeper.
Singamayum Shami (18 years)
Singamayum Shami in ISL. Image | Cricketnmore
Born: 18 April 2007, Manipur
Position: Midfielder
Current team: Punjab FC
Singamayum Shami is a highly exciting attacking midfielder for Punjab FC. He swiftly made his mark in his flourishing career and became the youngest goalscorer in the history of ISL (at 17 years) in 2025.
Shami had an exceptional ability to handle pressure and even score at those times. He was a part of the India U-20 team that won the SAFF U-20 Championship in 2025. Not only was he a key part of the team, but also earned the mostvaluable player award of the tournament.
Gurnaj Singh Grewal representing East Bengal. Image | X
Born: 9 January 2007, Punjab
Position: Midfielder
Current team: East Bengal FC
Gurnaj Singh Grewal is a promising midfielder who has been a part of the youth setup at East Bengal FC. He has an amazing ability to control the tempo of the game and initiate offensive plays.
He has contributed to East Bengal's reserve squad, contributing to their success, including winning the Calcutta Football League 2024-25. Internationally, he represented India at the U-17 and U-19 levels and was a part of the SAFF U-19 Championship-winning squad.
There have been several players who led the Indian football team to reach the stage where it is right now. Let’s have a look at top 10 Indian football captains of all time.
Indian football is currently in its growing stage and has gained immense popularity in the last few years. The Indian football team is yet to achieve many big milestones on international level, which are anticipated to get achieved in the upcoming years. With the rise of Indian football over the years, there have been several players who led the Indian football team to reach the stage where it is right now.
Let’s have a look at top 10 Indian football captains of all time.
Top 10 Indian Football Captains
10. Talimeren Ao
Tenure: 1948
The very first captain of independent India, Talimeren Ao led the national side in it's first ever game at the Olympics in 1948.
He played only six times for India, but his name will be long remembered for being the very first captain of the new nation.
Hailing from Nagaland, Ao was a centre-back as well as a qualified physician. There are two stadiums in Assam named after him.
9. Prasun Banerjee
Tenure: 1980
The younger brother of PK Banerjee, Prasun played for India between 1974-1985 and captained the team five times in international tournaments.
He was a defensive midfielder in his playing days, but is currently an MP from Howrah in the Lok Sabha.
8. Mohammed Habib
Tenure: 1965-1975
Represented and captained the side between 1965-1975. Habib was a household name amongst football fans in the country back then with PK Banerjee once calling him 'the Indian Pele'.
7. Gurpreet Singh Sandhu
Tenure: Occasional captain
The giant goalie is another who has in recent years been handed the armband by coach Constantine. He led the side out against Puerto Rico in 2016.
6. Jarnail Singh
Tenure: 1965–67
Captained the Indian Football team between 1965-1967. Jarnail Singh was another in the long list of centre-backs to have captained the side.
He was notably named in the Asian All Star team of 1966.
5. Sailen Manna
Tenure: 1949–54
Considered one of the best defenders to pull on the India blue, Manna played 14 times for India between 1948-1956. He captained the side to gold at the Asian Games in 1951.
The English FA back in 1953 rated him amongst the 10 best captains in the world in it's annual yearbook.
4. Chuni Goswami
Tenure: 1960–64
He was one of those multi-sport figures having played international football for India as a striker as well as first-class cricket for the Bengal Ranji Trophy team. He earned 50 caps for India between 1956-1964.
He was captain when India won gold at the Asian Games in 1962 and silver at the Asia Cup two years later.
3. PK Banerjee
Tenure: 1960–61
Made 84 appearances for India and is one of the most distinguished Indian footballers of all time. He scored 65 times for the side after making his debut in 1955. He captained the side at the 1960 Olympics.
2. Bhaichung Bhutia
Tenure: 2000-11
The man who really popularized the game of football in the nineties and noughties, the Sikkimese Sniper Bhaichung Bhutia first became captain in 2000-2011.
The legendary striker who played for over 16 years for the team was captain on numerous occasions including the successful SAFF Championship run in 2005.
1. Sunil Chhetri
Tenure: 2012–24
The current record goalscorer for the national side, Sunil Chhetri has made the armband his since 2012. It started with the AFC Challenge Cup back then and it has been his to lose ever since.
With over 150 caps and 95 goals to his name and many other honours, Chhetri will go down as one of the most successful captains of all time when he hangs up his boots.
Chhetri captained India to a record-extending ninth SAFF Championship title. Not only did he finish as that edition’s top scorer with five goals, he became the joint-highest goalscorer in SAFF championship history with 23 goals, along with Maldives’ Ali Ashfaq.
Indian football continues to grow, and the stadiums where the game is played are a key part of its story. The nation has a collection of incredible stadiums that have a history of holding the most high-stakes and celebrated matches.
The capacity of a football stadium directly impacts the overall experience. The larger a stadium, the more fans it can hold, and the bigger the atmosphere for a match. Therefore, this article notes down the best Indian football stadiums ranked by capacity.
1. Salt Lake Stadium (VYBK), West Bengal
Salt Lake Stadium, West Bengal. Image | News9live
Capacity: 85,000
Built in: 1984
The Salt Lake Stadium, officially known as Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan, is the largest Indian football stadium with a seating capacity of 85,000. Located at the heart of Kolkata, a city that breathes football, in West Bengal, it is simply an electrifying hub for the game.
Originally built in 1984, this stadium has undergone multiple renovations, including a major one for the FIFA Under-17 World Cup, 2017. The stadium saw legendary moments, like when Lionel Messi played here in 2011, or when Diego Maradona visited in 2008, drawing massive crowds.
This stadium is the most reliable venue for hosting major football matches that are played in India, which shows that it is fit for big international events.
Additionally, the famous Kolkata Derby (East Bengal vs. Mohun Bagan) regularly fills the stadium, creating an unforgettable experience for players and fans.
Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Delhi. Image | Wikipedia
Capacity: 60,254
Built in: 1982
Delhi's Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium is the second-largest Indian football stadium with a capacity of 60,254. It was originally built to host the events of 1982 Asian Games, and also hosted the 1989 Asian Championships in Athletics.
The stadium went through a modernised renovation for the 2010 Commonwealth Games, and hosted all the track and field events. Because it's in the nation's capital, it often hosts international friendly matches and national football tournaments.
It is a well-equipped grand venue that offers a big stage for players and a comfortable experience for the spectators.
3. Greenfield International Stadium, Kerala
Greenfield International Stadium, Kerala. Image | TOI
Capacity: 50,000
Built in: 2015
The Greenfield International Stadium in Kerala, also known as "The Sports Hub, Trivandrum," can hold 50,000 spectators, which is the 3rd highest in India. It is relatively new and built as a multi-purpose stadium, having top-notch facilities.
The stadium hosted its first international football tournament in 2015 (SAFF Championship). It is mostly known for hosting cricket matches, making it the home ground for the Kerala Cricket Association.
EMS Stadium, Kozhikode, Kerala. Image | The Bridge
Capacity: 50,000
Built in: 1977
The EMS Stadium in Kozhikode, Kerala, is another multi-purpose stadium that has a capacity of 50,000. It is a very old and precious football venue of the state, famous for its deep connection with local football and drawing of enthusiastic fans.
It is home to the I-League club Gokulam Kerala FC, and has hosted big tournaments like the Super Cup, Santosh Trophy, and the Sait Nagjee Football tournament.
5. DY Patil Stadium, Maharashtra
DY Patil Stadium, Mumbai, Maharashtra. Image | Mint
Capacity: 45,300
Built in: 2008
DY Patil Stadium in Mumbai is a spacious and modern multi-purpose sports arena, with a seating capacity of 45,300. While it is also used for cricket and big concerts, it's a very capable football stadium.
It has high-quality seating areas, awesome screens and sound system. The stadium has hosted matches during the 2017 FIFA U-17 World Cup, 2022 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup, 2022 AFC Women's Asian Cup and the 2023–24 AFC Champions League.
6. Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium, Kaloor, Kerala
Jawarhalal Nehru International Stadium, Kaloor. Image | Facebook
Capacity: 41,000
Built in: 1996
This stadium in Kerala holds 41,000 spectators and is famous for its incredibly passionate football fans. It is the home ground for the Kerala Blasters, a popular team in the ISL.
The energy here during the ISL matches is phenomenal. It is often known to have one of the best football atmospheres in India. This stadium is often picked because of its decent quality and overall experience.
7. Birsa Munda Football Stadium, Jharkhand
Birsa Munda Football Stadium. Image | X
Capacity: 40,000
Built in: 2009
With a capacity of 40,000, Birsa Munda Football Stadium in Ranchi is a major football hub in Jharkhand. It was opened in 2009, and has hosted many national tournaments with good remarks.
Its unique design makes it look eye-catching. It provides a significant platform for local teams and works to help the sport get bigger!
The Indian Super League (ISL) has consistently served as a launch pad for India’s most promising football talent. Here are top 5 Indian players to watch in ISL 2025.
The Indian Super League (ISL) has consistently served as a launch pad for India’s most promising football talent. The ISL 2024-25 season was no different, with young stars lighting up the league and charting the future course of Indian football.
Here are top 5 Indian players to watch in ISL 2025.
Dippendu Biswas, 21, made 14 appearances in a star-studded MBSG line-up and carved an impact with his defensive contributions, comprising 14 interceptions and victorious tackles each, 42 duels won and 39 recoveries.
He also occasionally delivered upfront; producing a goal and two assists and was named the ISL Emerging Player of the Month for February 2025.
2. Vinith Venkatesh | Bengaluru FC
Bengaluru FC has a track record of producing young talent for the nation. With Gerard Zaragoza in the managerial position, one of the players who made his mark this season is Vinith Venkatesh.
The 19-year-old impressed many with his dribbling and passing ability. A passing accuracy of 80per cent alongside 191 successful passes and 9 successful dribbles in only 602 minutes makes him a great prospect for the Blues’ future. Vinith has not only got a solitary goal and two assists to his name this ISL season but has also scored twice against Mohammedan SC and once against Mohun Bagan in the Durand Cup.
3. Brison Fernandes | FC Goa
Another player that has been a break-out talent this year is Brison Fernandes. From Goa’s under 18 team to being an out right starter, it has been quite a rise for Brison.
Brison has managed to impress with his dribbling and shooting capability scoring seven goals and assisting twice. The 23-year-old created 27 chances for the Gaurs and provided 25 key passes into the final third. With his direct play, the left-winger emerged as one of the most exciting young Indian players to watch this season.
4. Tekcham Abhishek Singh | Punjab FC
In only his second ISL campaign, defender Tekcham Abhishek Singh impressed with returns that saw him become the player with the third-most interceptions (47).
The 20-year-old won seven aerial duels, 17 tackles, 23 clearances, in addition to making 70 recoveries, while forming an impeccable partnership with Nikhil Prabhu, who made the most interceptions in the league in the season gone by (56).
NorthEast United made it to the play-offs after three years, while most of the credits go to its foreign players like Alaaeddine Ajaraie and Nestor Albiach, a player that went under the radar is young midfielder Macarton Nickson.
With 21 appearances and a passing accuracy of 73 per cent, he has really shone under Juan Pedro Benali this season. The 21-year-old has established himself as a box to box midfielder providing both in defence and attack.
Defensively, Macarton has 97 recoveries and 13 interceptions. In attack as well, he has been able to support by providing 2two goals, one assists and 22 successful dribbles making him a beautiful player to watch.
Indian football transfer News: India international Jithin MS to stay with NorthEast United FC till 2028
Jithin, 27, joined the Northeast United FC at the start of the 2022-23 season and turned out for the Highlanders 79 times across competitions with 14 goals and 15 assists so far.
NorthEast United FC on Friday announced that India international Jithin MS has signed a contract extension with the club, which will keep him with the club until the end of the 2028 season.
Jithin, 27, joined the club at the start of the 2022-23 season and turned out for the Highlanders 79 times across competitions with 14 goals and 15 assists so far. Jithin, who won the Santosh Trophy with Kerala (2017-18) and multiple I-League titles with Gokulam Kerala (2020-21, 2021-22), has flourished at NorthEast United FC.
Jithin’s impact reached new heights during the 133rd Durand Cup, where he was awarded the prestigious Golden Ball as the tournament’s Most Valuable Player. He scored four goals and provided three assists during the campaign, helping NorthEast United FC lift their first-ever major trophy.
In the 2024–25 ISL season, Jithin continued to impress with his electrifying pace and flair down the flanks. He was the only Indian player to feature in the league’s top ten for assists, finishing with five. He is sixth on the list of players with the most chances created (41 chances) and is one of the three NorthEast United FC players on the top-10 list, alongside Alaaeddine Ajaraie (52) and Buanthanglun Samte (43).
“My teammates and the coaching staff have helped me improve a lot, and their support has been instrumental in winning the Golden Ball and earning a call-up to the national team. I’m proud to have achieved these milestones with NorthEast United FC. This club has become home over the past three years, and I’m delighted to continue for another three years,” Jithin said.
“Jithin is an exceptional footballer, one of the best Indian players in his position, and what he has accomplished so far is truly commendable. His rise to becoming an India international is a testament to his relentless hard work, dedication, and hunger to grow every single day. I’m delighted that a player of Jithin’s calibre will continue with us for the next three years,” Juan Pedro Benali, head coach of NorthEast United FC, said.
“Jithin’s journey has been inspiring. His India call-up highlights the dedication and professionalism he brings to the pitch, embodying everything we strive for at NorthEast United FC. He is a key part of our journey, and we’re thrilled to have him with us for three more years,” Mandar Tamhane, CEO, NorthEast United FC, said.