Hello
Isak Vanlalruatfela struck the winner in the 98th minute.
Both these teams are heading into the knockouts with identical forms, losing thrice along with drawing and winning once each in their previous five games.
The winners of the single-league knockout tie will qualify for the double-legged semifinals.
Mumbai City FC, Mohun Bagan Super Giant, FC Goa, Odisha FC, Kerala Blasters FC and Chennaiyin FC have qualified for the playoffs.
Nestor Albiach handed the Highlanders a deserving lead in the 84th minute. Keralite Jithin M S doubled the lead in injury time.
Saul Crespo and Naorem Mahesh Singh scored a brace each for East Bengal who kept their play-off hopes alive.
Blasters, who have 30 points from 19 games and currently in fifth spot, are assured of a top-six finish.
As many as 75 persons will receive free tickets for the match against East Bengal FC via a raffle draw.
Chennaiyin jumped to ninth spot with 21 points from 19 games.
Bengaluru FC and Odisha FC split points after a goalless draw in the early kick-off.