Predicted: 16 ISL and I-League teams which could make the cut for Super Cup 2018

I-League

Kolkata giants East Bengal and Mohun Bagan are well on their way to Super Cup

This league seems to be a lot more critical when it comes to teams qualifying for Super Cup.

At this point in time NEROCA FC, Minerva Punjab, East Bengal, Mohun Bagan, Shillong Lajong and Aizawl FC occupy the top six spots. While the top 5 have more or less secured direct qualification for Super Cup, defending champions Aizawl are still struggling to keep up the pace.

They have 18 points from 15 games. Breathing down their neck in the seventh position are Chennai City FC with 16 points from equal number of matches. Gokulum Kerala FC and Churchill brothers are the next two teams with 16 points each, but the latter have played 15 games compared to Gokulum’s 14. Indian Arrows complete the table having secured 15 points from 16 games.

Gokulum, who have been in red-hot form having won four of their last five games are more likely to leapfrog Aizawl and Chennai and at least finish sixth.

That leaves us with Aizawl, Chennai, Churchill and Arrows. These teams are most likely to battle against each other for two remaining Super Cup spots.

Prediction:

Top Six: Minerva Punjab, East Bengal, Neroca, Mohun Bagan, Shillong Lajong, Gokulam Kerala FC.

Qualifiers: Churchill Brothers and Indian Arrows are likely to progress.

The Goan side, having failed to win even one of their first six games, fought back to register five victories in the next six matches to move up the table. This holds them in good stead to clinch the Super League qualifier.

As far as the Arrows are concerned, they might be lying at the bottom of the table but they have exhibited spirited performances whenever they have taken to the field and have troubled high profile oppositions. That makes them favourite to progress to Super Cup.