There is something special about first impressions, whether in life or football.

Making your debut is special, and the players who lit up the stage on day one deserve special applause. A solid performance on the first call-up can not only set the tone for something special but also gain recognition.

From young Indians stunning the opposing team with a game-changing cameo to foreigners establishing their names with a stunning performance, ISL has seen some remarkable debut performances over the years.

Here’s a look at some of the league's debut delights.

ISL 2014: Cavin Lobo (ATK FC) vs FC Goa

Cavin Lobo became the first Indian to net a brace on his ISL debut as the midfielder scored twice against FC Goa, a club from his state, to secure crucial three points in an away fixture.

ATK FC were trailing by a 0-1 scoreline courtesy of Andre Santos' 21st-minute strike. However, Lobo came in clutch in the second half, scoring two goals in the 71st and 84th minutes to complete an incredible comeback in the league's inaugural campaign.

ISL 2015: Helder Postiga (ATK FC) vs Chennaiyin FC

Helder Postiga made his presence felt with a sublime brace against Chennaiyin FC on his ISL debut.

The Portuguese star, who had featured in the FIFA World Cup in 2006 and 2014 and the Euros in 2004, 2008, 2012, opened the scoring in the 13th minute. Despite hosts Chennaiyin FC scoring the equaliser, Postiga restored the lead for ATK FC in the 70th minute, eventually playing a crucial role in their 3-1 victory away from home.

ISL 2015: Tuncay Sanli (FC Pune City) vs Mumbai City FC

Tuncay Sanli scored a brace on his ISL debut as FC Pune City beat Mumbai City FC in their first match of the 2015 season.

Sanli scored the opener in the 12th minute, giving FC Pune City a crucial lead at home. Despite the Islanders equalising the scoreline before half time, the Turkish forward again put his side in front with his 56th strike. With a brace on his debut, Sanli powered FC Pune City to a 3-1 victory against Mumbai City FC.

ISL 2016: Marcelinho (Delhi Dynamos) vs Chennaiyin FC

Marcelinho struck twice against Chennaiyin FC on his debut ISL match.

Marcelinho broke the deadlock with his clinical finish from the spot in the 26th minute. However, the Marina Machans levelled the scoreline thanks to Dudu Omagbemi's 32nd-minute goal. It was none other than Delhi Dynamos' No. 10, who stepped up once again and put his side ahead within two minutes. He ultimately helped his team win the game by a 3-1 scoreline. The Brazilian sensation eventually ended up winning the Golden Boot award that season.

ISL 2020-21: Igor Angulo (FC Goa) vs Bengaluru FC

Igor Angulo shone bright on his first ISL appearance, scoring two goals against Bengaluru FC at the Fatorda.

The Gaurs were 0-2 down till the 65th minute courtesy of Cleiton Silva and Juanan's goals. However, a three-minute brace by the Spanish forward changed the dimension of the game within an eye blink, salvaging a crucial point for the hosts.

ISL 2022-23: Ivan Kalyuzhnyi (Kerala Blasters FC) vs East Bengal FC

Ivan Kalyuzhnyi came off the bench on his ISL debut and found himself on the score sheet twice as Kerala Blasters FC edged out East Bengal FC in the ISL 2022-23 season opener.

The Ukrainian midfielder was substituted in the 80th minute and went on to score his debut goal within two minutes. Kalyuzhnyi scored his second in the 89th minute with his thunderous left-footed strike from outside the box, sealing a 3-1 victory at Kochi. He was also named the Player of the Match for his impactful performance.