In a landmark moment for Indian football, Punjab FC's teenage midfielder Shami Singamayum etched his name into the record books by becoming the youngest goalscorer in Indian Super League (ISL) history on Thursday.

The 17-year-old found the back of the net in Punjab FC's 3-1 victory over Hyderabad FC, surpassing the previous record held by Komal Thatal. His feat has reignited conversations about the growing influence of young talent in the ISL.

Since its inception in 2014, the ISL has been instrumental in providing a platform for young Indian footballers to showcase their skills and make a name for themselves. With clubs focusing more on youth development, several promising players have emerged from the league, grabbing attention with their performances at the senior level and competing alongside seasoned professionals.

Over the years, the league has been a breeding ground for emerging Indian players, and several young guns have risen to the occasion with crucial goals.

Here’s a look at the five youngest goalscorers in ISL history.

1) Shami Singamayum (17 years, 322 days) - Punjab FC vs Hyderabad FC

Singamayum’s historic goal came at just 17 years and 322 days old, making him the youngest player ever to score in the ISL. The Punjab FC midfielder showcased incredible composure as he slotted home against Hyderabad FC, securing his place in history. His goal was the cherry on top of a night where Punjab FC’s young guns truly made their presence felt.

2) Komal Thatal (18 years, 43 days) - ATK FC vs Bengaluru FC

Before Singamayum, Komal Thatal held the record for the youngest goalscorer in the ISL. The winger made headlines in the 2018 season when he netted a well-taken goal for ATK FC against Bengaluru FC at just 18 years and 43 days old.

Thatal, who now plays for Jamshedpur FC and a former India U-17 World Cup star, was already on the radar as a promising attacker, and his goal only cemented his reputation. Although Thatal’s career trajectory has seen ups and downs, his early breakthrough in the ISL remains a significant milestone.

3) Korou Singh (18 years, 58 days) - Kerala Blasters FC vs Chennaiyin FC

Another recent entry into the youngest goalscorers' list is Kerala Blasters FC's Korou Singh, who scored against Chennaiyin FC in the ongoing season at 18 years and 58 days old. The young winger made a big impact in that game, causing a threat with his pace and attacking intent and his goal was a moment of individual brilliance.

With Kerala Blasters FC known for developing young players, Singh's emergence this season is another positive sign for both the club and Indian football.

4) Jerry Lalrinzuala (18 years, 124 days) - Chennaiyin FC vs FC Goa

Jerry Lalrinzuala, one of the most reliable full-backs in the ISL, scored spectacular fashion from a free-kick for Chennaiyin FC against FC Goa at just 18 years and 124 days old. What made his goal even more remarkable was that, despite being primarily a defender, he stepped up to take the free kick and displayed incredible technique, bending the ball over the wall and into the top corner. Although Chennaiyin FC suffered a 5-4 defeat, Lalrinzuala’s performance stood out as a major highlight.

He won the Emerging Player of the League award that season and since then, has gone on to become a mainstay in Indian football, currently playing for Odisha FC.

5) Lalrinliana Hnamte (18 years, 279 days) - East Bengal FC vs Chennaiyin FC

Lalrinliana Hnamte’s goal for East Bengal FC against Chennaiyin FC in 2022 put him among the youngest scorers in ISL history. At 18 years and 279 days old, the young midfielder showcased great awareness, rising high to score a powerful header from a corner, bringing East Bengal FC level after trailing by two goals. His crucial strike fueled a comeback, helping the Kolkata side salvage a draw.

Since then, he has evolved into a promising talent, making his way to Mohun Bagan Super Giant and now leaving his mark at Chennaiyin FC.

Related tags:

2024-2025Punjab FC Korou Singh ThingujamKomal ThatalLalrinliana HnamteJerry Lalrinzuala