The Indian Super League (ISL) kicked off in 2014 with great excitement, star names, and plenty of expectations. But one question was on everyone’s mind: like every league has its first hero, who would it be for the ISL?

The answer came quickly. In the league’s opening match, Ethiopian striker Fikru Tefera scored the first-ever goal in the ISL. That strike not only gave ATK FC the lead but also gifted the league its first unforgettable moment.

Fikru’s time in the ISL lasted just two seasons, but in that short span, he left behind stories, celebrations, and flashes of drama that fans still remember. Let’s take a closer look at the legacy of the league’s first hero.

History maker

Fikru arrived at ATK FC without much fanfare, but from the very first day he set foot on the pitch, he carved his name into Indian Super League history. In the league’s inaugural match against Mumbai City FC, the Ethiopian striker scored the first-ever ISL goal. Just before the half-hour mark at the iconic Salt Lake Stadium, he showed remarkable composure, delicately chipping the ball over the onrushing Subrata Paul to give ATK FC the lead and followed it up with his trademark somersault celebration that instantly captured the crowd’s imagination.

But it wasn’t just that one goal that made him special. Fearless, fiery, and full of energy, Fikru became a fan favourite almost overnight. He scored important goals, celebrated with acrobatics, and added an edge to ATK FC’s attack that made him unpredictable. He could frustrate opponents, thrill the crowd, and most importantly, he was never boring.

By the end of the season, Fikru had five goals and three assists to his name, playing a key role in ATK FC’s third-place finish in the league stage. An untimely injury kept him out of the playoffs, but ATK FC went on to lift the inaugural ISL Cup after defeating Kerala Blasters FC in the final.

A new chapter with Chennaiyin FC

Fikru’s ISL story didn’t end there. In 2015, he returned, this time with Chennaiyin FC under Marco Materazzi. Expectations were high, but strong competition in the CFC attack meant his minutes on the pitch were limited.

His lone goal that season came against none other than his former side, ATK FC, in the semi-final in Kolkata. Coming off the bench, Fikru delivered a decisive strike that dashed ATK FC’s hopes of a comeback in the second leg and thus helping Chennaiyin FC move into the final. In the final, the Marina Machans pulled off a dramatic 3-2 win over FC Goa to claim the ISL Cup.

To date, whenever fans talk about the early stages of the ISL, Fikru’s name inevitably comes up. His historic first goal, his iconic somersaults, and his fearless style made him unforgettable. He may not have stayed long, nor won individual honours, but he gave the league its very first big moment.