PANAJI
Indian Super League (ISL) season has taken a pause after an exciting first four matchweeks, filled with action and drama. So far, a total of 69 goals have been scored, with only one team maintaining a perfect record and another remaining unbeaten. As the league prepares to resume after the international break, let's take a closer look at how each team has performed.
Bengaluru FC sits at the top of the table with 10 points from four matches. They have impressed fans with their solid defense, not allowing a single goal in any game. Captain Sunil Chhetri has been a standout performer, scoring three goals. While the team has executed their strategy perfectly under coach Gerard Zaragoza, they still have room for improvement, particularly from player Jorge Pereyra Diaz, who is yet to hit his stride.
In second place is Punjab FC, the only team with a perfect record, having won all three of their matches for a total of 9 points. Their victories over Kerala Blasters FC and Odisha FC showcase their strength. Indian players like Leon Augustine and Nihal Sudeesh have emerged as key contributors, and coach Panagiotis Dilmperis deserves credit for his effective tactics. However, the team will miss forward Luka Majcen, who is out for 6-8 weeks due to injury.
Jamshedpur FC follows closely in third with 9 points from four games. Their resilience has been commendable, especially as they’ve come from behind to win twice. Yet, they have allowed many scoring opportunities to opponents, and conceding the first goal in three matches is a concern that needs addressing.
Mohun Bagan Super Giant currently holds the fourth position with 7 points. Despite not performing at their best, they’ve managed to collect points and have a talented squad that includes big names like Dimitri Petratos and Jamie Maclaren. However, their defense has been shaky, conceding seven goals so far.
FC Goa is in fifth place with 5 points. The team has relied heavily on foreign attackers Armando Sadiku and Borja Herrera, who have scored most of their goals. Key players are returning from injury, which could bolster their performance. However, with eight goals conceded, they have one of the worst defensive records in the league.
NorthEast United FC is also on 5 points, finding some positives in the form of striker Alaeddine Ajaraie, who has scored in every match. Yet, they have also let in seven goals, raising concerns about their defense.
In seventh place, Kerala Blasters FC has shown signs of improvement but is still searching for their first clean sheet this season. Indian players have yet to score, which is an area needing focus.
Chennaiyin FC sits in eighth with 4 points but has struggled in recent games, failing to score in their last two outings. The team needs to find its offensive rhythm.
Odisha FC is ninth with 4 points, struggling defensively but showing potential with players like Hugo Boumous and Diego Mauricio stepping up.
Mohammedan SC has 4 points in tenth position, performing well in patches but struggling to convert chances into goals.
Mumbai City FC is in eleventh place with just 2 points and has yet to secure a win. Their defense has been a problem area, particularly against crosses.
Lastly, Hyderabad FC and East Bengal FC have had tough starts, sitting at the bottom of the table. East Bengal has yet to earn a point, struggling to gel as a team.
As the league prepares to resume, teams will be looking to refine their strategies and improve their standings in the weeks ahead.
