Indian Super League

The Indian Super League is the top soccer category in India. It was established in 2013 with the goal of expanding the sport’s impact on the nation. It used to share the top level of the pyramid in Indian soccer with the I-League, but this changed in 2022, when the I-League was demoted one step in the Indian soccer ladder. The competition is overseen by the All India Football Federation (AIFF)

The league operates under a promotion-relegation system, although no teams have been relegated since the I-League became a proverbial second category in Indian soccer. Promotion has already been suggested by Asian Football Confederation officers, so the league can continue with its extended growth.

The Indian Super League had eight teams during its first three seasons, but with the decision to make it the top competition in the country, the number of teams increased to 13 thanks to the decision not to relegate any teams. The competition usually kicks off in September and concludes in early May, with two stages taking place and two titles being handed out every season.

The regular season crowns the Indian Super League champions. Each team plays its league rivals twice each season, and those who claim more points end up winning the title and a spot in the AFC Champions League Two. Whoever wins this title is considered as league champion.

The second tournament is known as the ISL Cup, and it features the top six teams in the competition. The top two clubs enter the semifinal stage, while the other four enter a one-leg KO match to gain access to the semis. Once there, the semifinals take place on a home-and-away basis, with the highest-seeded team hosting the return leg. Those who qualify fight for the ISL Cup title in a one-leg final, held at a neutral venue. Extra time and penalties are used to determine the winner in case the game is drawn after 90 minutes.