Fox in the box: Top goalscorers from ISL 2023-24
Let's delve into the list of the highest goalscorers from the latest season.
The Indian Super League (ISL) 2023-24 season witnessed an abundance of goals, with the eight-month-long campaign witnessing a record-breaking total of 374 goals, averaging 2.76 goals per fixture. Throughout the season, forwards showcased their skill and finesse, contributing significantly to this impressive tally.
From thunderous strikes from outside the box to audacious Panenka penalties, from last-minute headers to sublime free kicks, the diversity of goal-scoring techniques was on full display. The competition among the league's top scorers was intense, with each matchday offering thrilling battles for supremacy on the goalscoring charts.
As the curtain falls on the tenth edition of the ISL, let's take a look at the standout performers who lit up the league with their goal-scoring exploits.
Dimitrios Diamantakos (Kerala Blasters FC) – 13 Goals
The Greek forward clinched the 'Golden Boot' accolade in his second season in India. Despite facing challenges due to the unavailability of several key players, Diamantakos emerged as the silver lining in the Blasters' forward line, playing a pivotal role in Kerala Blasters FC's third consecutive playoff qualification. With 13 goals in just 17 appearances, Diamantakos tops the elite list of highest goalscorers of the season.
Roy Krishna (Odisha FC) – 13 Goals
With his maturity and vast experience, veteran forward Roy Krishna played a pivotal role in Odisha FC's historic semi-final appearance, marking a significant milestone in the club's history. Renowned for his offensive prowess, Krishna's work ethic, leadership qualities, and composure in front of goal were instrumental in driving his team forward. Forming a formidable partnership with Diego Mauricio up front, the Fijian showcased his ability to lead the attack effectively. Despite tallying impressive numbers comparable to Diamantakos, Krishna finished second in the goal-scoring list due to participating in more matches.
Jason Cummings (Mohun Bagan SG) – 12 Goals
In his debut season in the ISL, Australian World Cupper Jason Cummings emerged as the top goal-scorer for the Mariners, surpassing Dimitri Petratos in this regard. Cummings showcased his innate ability to pose a potent threat to opposing defenders and consistently found himself in goal-scoring positions, proving to be a game-changer for Mohun Bagan SG on multiple occasions. The Aussie forward notably scored in the Mariners' ISL League Shield-winning match and their 1-3 loss in the ISL Cup final, underlining his impact throughout the season.
Diego Mauricio (Odisha FC) – 11 Goals
Although Krishna often stole the spotlight throughout the season, Diego Mauricio had a standout campaign with Odisha FC, tallying 11 goals in 23 appearances. Mauricio's versatility to operate both as a striker and a wide winger has been instrumental in Sergio Lobera's tactical setup. Renowned for his sharp movement inside the box, powerful strikes from close range, and agile dribbling, the 32-year-old forward made a significant goal-scoring contribution for the Kalinga Warriors.
Noah Sadaoui (FC Goa) – 11 Goals
Noah Sadaoui played a pivotal role in FC Goa's playoff qualification for the first time in three seasons. The Moroccan winger-forward contributed 11 goals and five assists in 23 appearances, showcasing his all-round impact for the Gaurs. With his blistering speed down the flanks, exceptional footwork, and dynamic playmaking abilities, Sadaoui emerged as a versatile and standout performer for Manolo Marquez’s side.
Jorge Pereyra Diaz (Mumbai City FC) – 10 Goals
The Argentine forward secures the sixth position in the list with 10 goals to his name, having also scored against Mohun Bagan Super Giant in the ISL final. Renowned for his poaching instincts and commanding attributes in dead-ball situations, Diaz's offensive impact on the pitch is unparalleled. Notably, the 33-year-old forward emerged as the joint-highest goal scorer for Mumbai City FC besides Lallianzuala Chhangte.
In addition to Diaz, Carlos Martinez (FC Goa), Chhangte (Mumbai City FC), and Dimitri Petratos (Mohun Bagan SG) also notched the 10-goal mark this season.