Finding the back of the net is the paramount objective in football, and some forwards do this with ease. From sublime hat-tricks to fierce braces, edge-of-the-seat equalisers to fascinating winners, towering headers to classic tap-ins, the Indian Super League (ISL) 2023-24 season witnessed it all, with the league seeing 384 goals scored at an average of 2.76 goals per game.

Arguably having the utmost significance and supreme impact in the game, the forwards hold the key to success for their respective teams, as they are considered the cardinal assets of any squad. Their phenomenal strikes, eye-catching skills, enthusiastic movements in and around the box, and exemplary composure are a testament to their ever-increasing goalscoring stats.

As Phases 1 and 2 of the Fans’ Team of the Season voting have come to an end, it’s now time for Phase 3, which commenced on Friday. This category will showcase the forwards, where fans have the luxury of selecting three forwards who will feature in the ultimate team with a 3-4-3 formation. Notably, the Phase 3 voting will continue until June 2, and fans have to handpick their ultimate three to complete their potential starting 11.

With Phase 3 of voting underway, fans can now vote for their preferred forwards. But before that, let's take a look at the nominees for forwards for the Fans’ Team of the Season.

Fans' Right Forwards of the Season: 

Lallianzuala Chhangte

From Mumbai City FC’s ISL Cup victory to finishing the league stage in the second spot in the points table, the Mizo forward had a significant impact on Petr Kratky’s team throughout the eight-month season. Chhangte was the highest goal contributor for the side with 10 goals and six assists and also the highest chance creator (43) for the Islanders in the tenth season of the ISL. The 26-year-old dynamic winger’s agile pace, fascinating footwork, and mature movements in front of the goal highlighted his dazzling performance in his 25 appearances this season

Manvir Singh

Throughout the season, the Indian international was at the peak of his game, finishing as the highest Indian assist provider with seven (7) assists to his name. Singh’s sensational runs down the right flank and his inch-perfect cutbacks to his forwards were on full display during the Mariners’ League Shield-winning campaign, during which he also netted four goals in the ISL.

Mohammad Yasir

After beginning the season with Hyderabad FC, Mohammad Yasir switched to FC Goa mid-season, where he elevated his game under the guidance of his former head coach, Manolo Marquez. The left-footed Indian winger found the back of the net three times and provided five assists in his 22 appearances this season.

Luka Majcen

Punjab FC captain Luka Majcen was a mainstay in Staikos Vergetis’ starting lineup, where the forward played a pivotal role for the Shers with his versatile offensive skills. The Slovenian forward wasn't limited to a single position; he operated both as a lone striker upfront and as a second striker, contributing to attacks from the build-up play and exploiting spaces behind the defensive line. Majcen scored eight goals and provided two assists for his teammates. Additionally, he recorded 72 touches in the opposition box and created 24 chances throughout the league.

Naorem Mahesh Singh

Naorem Mahesh Singh scored four goals and provided two assists in the league this season. The Manipur-born winger formed a crucial partnership with Nandhakumar Sekar, who operated from the opposite flank. Additionally, Singh demonstrated versatility by dropping deep into the midfield on several occasions as needed by his team. Overall, he created 34 chances throughout the season.

Fans' Centre Forwards of the Season: 

Dimitrios Diamantakos

Diamantakos clinched the prestigious Golden Boot award for his stellar performance with Kerala Blasters FC in his second season in India. The Greek forward showcased his ability to convert half-chances inside the penalty box and his efficiency in hitting the target from tough angles. In addition to scoring 13 goals this season, Diamantakos emerged as a silver lining in the Blasters’ lineup, despite the absence of numerous key players due to injuries and suspensions.

Roy Krishna

As one of the veteran forwards in the league, Roy Krishna experienced a standout season with Odisha FC, notching 13 goals. However, despite his impressive goal-scoring record, he missed out on the Golden Boot award by few margins. The Fijian striker has been an integral part of Sergio Lobera’s style of play, contributing with both his goal-scoring prowess and leadership qualities. Additionally, Krishna created 42 chances and won 117 duels for the Kalinga Warriors. Similar to Diamantakos, he also had three assists to his name.

Jason Cummings

Jason Cummings has made a significant impact in his debut ISL season, scoring 12 goals in 23 appearances. The Australian goal-poacher has impressed with his off-the-ball positioning and precise finishing inside the box. Additionally, Cummings played a pivotal role in Mohun Bagan SG’s maiden ISL League Shield triumph this season.

Jorge Pereyra Diaz

The Argentine forward emerged as the joint-highest goal scorer (10) for Mumbai City FC, despite playing fewer matches than Lallianzuala Chhangte. Diaz has proven to be a potent threat to opponents' defensive lines, thanks to his ability to position himself decisively inside the box and expertly finish attacking moves, whether from open play or dead-ball situations. The 33-year-old maintained an impressive average of 0.59 goals per game, with a goal conversion rate of 33.33%.

Diego Mauricio

The Brazilian forward formed an excellent partnership with Krishna upfront, proving crucial for Odisha FC's run to the playoff semifinals. Diego Mauricio’s versatility to play both as a striker and a wide-winger added an extra dimension to the Kalinga Warriors’ squad. The 32-year-old forward scored 11 goals this season and provided an assist.

Carlos Martinez

Despite a slow start to the season, Martinez picked up his form as it progressed. In his debut ISL season for FC Goa, the veteran Spaniard scored 10 goals and provided two assists. Martinez was particularly effective with his towering headers and sharp side-booted flicks in front of the near post.

Wilmar Jordan Gil

Despite missing the initial phase of the season due to injury, Wilmar Jordan Gil maintained his goal-scoring prowess at his new club. He netted eight goals in his 15 appearances for Punjab FC. The Colombian striker adapted well to Staikos Vergetis’ strategies and was effective on the pitch with his high press and physical presence. Gil played a crucial role in the Shers’ offensive foreign trio, alongside Majcen and Madih Talal, contributing to their impressive performance in their debut season.

Fans' Left Forwards of the Season: 

Dimitrios Petratos

Petratos emerged as the linchpin behind Mohun Bagan SG’s remarkable success in the ISL 2023–24 season, showcasing his noteworthy offensive potential and game-changing impact. The Australian forward was honoured with the 'Golden Ball' accolade for having the highest goal contribution (17) in the league. Furthermore, Petratos shared the title of the joint-highest chance creator this season (60), matching his tally with Brandon Fernandes.

Vikram Partap Singh

The ISL 2023–24 season witnessed the maturity and true potential of Vikram Partap Singh, who experienced a breakthrough season under the guidance of Petr Kratky. The versatile winger formed a formidable partnership with Chhangte, achieving his career-best numbers of eight goals and four assists to date. Furthermore, Singh stood out as the only Indian player to score a hat-trick in the ISL this season. As recognition of his outstanding performance, he was also honoured with the Emerging Player of the League award.

Cleiton Silva

Cleiton Silva, the joint-highest goalscorer from the ISL 2022–23 season, continued to shine for East Bengal FC in the latest campaign. With a total of 11 goal contributions, including eight goals and three assists, the veteran once again proved to be a key player for the Red and Gold Brigade. Additionally, he created 33 chances for his side.

Liston Colaco

Known for his robust speed and innate ability to dribble past his marker, Liston Colaco has enjoyed another impressive season. The 25-year-old winger has made eight goal contributions, scoring four goals and providing four assists for Mohun Bagan Super Giant.

Related tags:

Kerala Blasters FCOdisha FCMohun Bagan Super GiantEast Bengal FCFC GoaMumbai City FCPunjab FC2023-2024