We’ve all watched Indian Super League (ISL) games for the excitement. The league has given us thrilling goals, last-minute winners, dramatic finals and unforgettable rivalries. But beyond football, it's the human stories that have left a lasting impression.

These emotional moments are rare but unforgettable. They pull you in and stay with you because of its relevance. Maybe it was a tribute. Maybe it was sportsmanship. Maybe it was someone showing strength in their most vulnerable moment.

In this piece, we’re looking back at five such times in ISL history when football didn’t just entertain, it made us feel. And in doing so, reminded us why we fell in love with the beautiful game in the first place.

1) Luna's goal for the heavens

Opening night of the ISL 2022-23 season and a packed house at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi. Kerala Blasters FC were locked in a tense battle against East Bengal FC, unable to find a breakthrough. And then Adrian Luna rose to the occasion.

Receiving a lofted ball with perfect control, Luna slotted the ball past the keeper, breaking the deadlock. But what followed next was what stayed with everyone. As the crowd roared, Luna pointed to the sky, his eyes welled with tears. Just months before, he had tragically lost his young daughter. That goal wasn't just a moment of sporting brilliance but it was a tribute from a grieving father to his little girl watching from above.

Kerala Blasters FC would go on to win 3-1, thanks to Ivan Kaliuzhnyi’s late brace. But it was Luna’s goal and his silent, tearful dedication that grabbed the attention. The stadium, the fans, even the opposition knew who that goal was for. Football, in that moment, offered him healing, and the world watched in solidarity.

2) Brandon's tribute to 'Dada'

Few players have embodied the spirit of FC Goa quite like Brandon Fernandes. A stalwart that served the club for seven seasons and a midfield magician, Brandon was a fan favourite. But behind every success story is often a silent supporter. For Brandon, that was his father, Joaquim Fernandes, fondly known as 'Jaju'.

Following the ISL 2022-23 season, Brandon suffered a big loss when his father passed away. Yet, when the next season arrived, Brandon channelled his grief into the game. He delivered one of his best campaigns, with three goals and four assists, helping FC Goa reach the semi-finals.

It was during their final league match against Chennaiyin FC that emotion came pouring out. Brandon scored a goal in a 4-1 win and revealed a special FC Goa jersey that read ‘Dada’ with his jersey number 10 on the back. As he raised his hands to the sky, the moment transcended football. It was a son saying thank you and a tribute that would have made his father proud. For those who knew how often Joaquim was spotted in the stands, it felt like he was there one last time.

3) When Miku visited injured Gallego

In the ISL 2018-19 second-leg semi-final between Bengaluru FC and NorthEast United FC, football showed its more humane side.

The Highlanders had won the first leg 2-1 and were pushing hard in the return fixture. Federico Gallego, the Uruguayan playmaker, was everywhere on the pitch, leading from the front in the absence of Bartholomew Ogbeche and Rowllin Borges, two of NorthEast United FC’s most influential players that campaign. But midway through the second half, tragedy struck.

In a courageous attempt to stop a Bengaluru FC counter, Gallego collided with Miku. The challenge left him with a broken foot and he had to be stretchered off the field. Without their talisman, Eelco Schattorie’s side lost momentum and Bengaluru FC stormed to a 3-0 win, eventually winning the tie 4-2 on aggregate.

What happened after, however, was what stayed etched in fans' memories. While many players tweeted their support, Miku went a step further. He visited Gallego in the hospital. The two were later pictured together, smiling through the pain. It was a gesture of respect that showed the beauty of the game and that even amid fierce competition, empathy and sportsmanship can shine through.

4) Mumbai City FC celebrate with Ranawade in spirit

The ISL 2020-21 final was historic. Mumbai City FC were up against Mohun Bagan Super Giant, chasing their first Cup and a chance to complete the double. It was a night that saw goals, drama and eventual glory.

But amidst all of it, there was worry. Local lad Amey Ranawade, who had been a consistent performer all season, suffered a terrifying head injury during the match. He was unable to continue and was rushed to the hospital. Teammates and even opponents were left shaken.

However, the Islanders held their nerve and secured a 2-1 win. The final whistle brought joy but also a reminder of who wasn’t there to celebrate. In a poignant tribute, a few Mumbai City FC players lifted a jersey bearing Ranawade’s name and number while celebrating with the Cup. It was a tribute to the unsung hero who couldn’t be on the pitch but was very much present in spirit. Football can be cruel but sometimes, it remembers to be kind.

5) Marquez uplifts Gill

Finals often end in heartbreak for one team and the ISL 2021-22 final was no different. Kerala Blasters FC, chasing their first-ever Cup, looked destined for glory after taking the lead against Hyderabad FC. But a late stunner from Sahil Tavora took the game into extra time and eventually, penalties.

Prabhusukhan Gill, KBFC’s young goalkeeper, had been outstanding all season, later winning the Golden Glove for most clean sheets. But when it came down to penalties, luck abandoned him. As Hyderabad FC celebrated their first ISL Cup win, Gill fell to the turf in tears, devastated.

That’s when Hyderabad FC head coach Manolo Marquez did something unforgettable. Instead of celebrating with his players, he walked straight over to Gill, lifted him up from the ground and consoled him. A simple pat on the head said what words couldn’t. It was a gesture that showed the human side of a fiercely competitive game.

In a moment where victory met heartbreak, Marquez responded with a gesture that was pure class.