ISL 2023-24: Key takeaways from Matchweek 15
Matchweek 15 showcased numerous brilliant individual performances and a plethora of goals, with a total of 20 being scored across the eight fixtures.
Matchweek 15 of the Indian Super League (ISL) did not disappoint, delivering yet another captivating week of action. The highlight of the week was a flurry of goals and outstanding individual performances.
A total of 20 goals were scored in the eight games, and what set this week apart was the absence of draws. Teams such as Mohun Bagan Super Giant and Mumbai City FC - among the five teams engaged in two fixtures during the Matchweek - emerged as the most successful by securing maximum points in both encounters. Notably, these teams also saw improvements in their standings on the ISL table, intensifying their pursuit of the League Shield.
Undoubtedly, this Matchweek proved to be pivotal and thrilling, as several teams secured crucial three points in their quest for the League Shield or the playoff spots.
With that, we’ve highlighted the major talking points from the Matchweek gone by.
Mohun Bagan SG are back
Entering Matchweek 15 in the fourth spot of the standings, Mohun Bagan SG has experienced a remarkable climb, securing two consecutive victories that propelled them up by two places. Currently, they sit just two points behind the table-topping Odisha FC and boast a game in hand.
Facing challenging fixtures on paper, including an away encounter with the unbeaten FC Goa and a home clash against NorthEast United FC, Mohun Bagan SG demonstrated remarkable character and determination. The team's commitment and collective effort were evident in their triumph against FC Goa, while their resilience shone through in the game against NorthEast United FC, where they overcame a deficit to secure three crucial points.
Having endured three consecutive defeats in December, Mohun Bagan SG has orchestrated a brilliant turnaround, remaining unbeaten in their last four league games, with three victories among them. Since the return of Antonio Habas as the head coach, the team has exhibited continuous improvement and strength, solidifying their position in the league.
View this post on Instagram
Don’t count Chennaiyin FC out
Chennaiyin FC secured three crucial points in Matchweek 15, propelling themselves out of the 10th spot in the league table that they occupied prior to the game. Despite a narrow victory against Kerala Blasters FC, the win was well-deserved for Chennaiyin FC on their home turf, where they outperformed Ivan Vukomanovic’s side in all aspects of the game.
View this post on Instagram
The significance of the result extends beyond the points earned. It marked Chennaiyin FC's first-ever victory against Kerala Blasters FC under Vukomanovic, also extending their unbeaten home streak against the Blasters.
This was their fourth win of the season and the third one on their home turf. With eight league games to go, Owen Coyle will be hoping for more of the same.
Chennaiyin FC is gearing up to play five out of their remaining eight games at the Marina Arena, a venue renowned for its challenging atmosphere for opposing teams. The passionate supporters of Chennaiyin FC consistently make their presence felt, adding to the formidable ambiance at the Marina Arena. Coyle’s team will be aiming to make the most of these matches as they push for the playoff spot.
“It puts us right back in the mix for the top six, which I told you, we’ll give ourselves a fighting chance,” Coyle said after the win.
Jeremy Manzorro is a man reborn
Jamshedpur FC has undergone a resurgence under the guidance of head coach Khalid Jamil. Following their successful journey to the semi-finals of the Kalinga Super Cup, the team has maintained an unbeaten streak in four league games under Jamil, securing two wins in the process.
A notable transformation has been observed in individual players, particularly in the case of Jeremy Manzorro. Previously deployed primarily as a No. 6 by former head coach Scott Cooper, Jamil has repositioned Manzorro as a box-to-box midfielder, allowing him the freedom to contribute to the attack. This tactical shift has proven fruitful, with Manzorro scoring four goals in as many games under Jamil. Before this, he had yet to find the back of the net under Scott Cooper.
While Manzorro has scored one goal from open play this season, his prowess in free-kicks was showcased during a significant 4-0 victory against Punjab FC. He skillfully curled one free-kick into the top corner and executed a dipping effort that found the net after hitting the underside of the crossbar. Additionally, he has taken on spot-kick duties under Jamil.
View this post on Instagram
With growing confidence, Manzorro is becoming a crucial asset for Jamshedpur FC in their pursuit of a playoff spot.
Guarrotxena stepping up in Diaz’s absence
Jorge Diaz, Mumbai City FC's leading goal-scorer this season, faced a setback as he received a four-match suspension following their defeat to Odisha FC in the Kalinga Super Cup semi-final. The departure of key players Greg Stewart, Abdenasser El Khayati, and Rostyn Griffiths in the January transfer window added to the challenges for the team when they returned to the league.
However, the arrival of new signing Iker Guarrotxena has injected a fresh dynamism into Mumbai City FC's attack in recent games. The versatile forward, who previously played for FC Goa in the 2022-23 season, quickly adapted to his new team in no time and showcased his capabilities.
Guarrotxena made a notable impact in his debut off the bench against Jamshedpur FC, and despite the team's loss, he displayed significant contributions in the final third. His first start for Mumbai City FC in the away game against East Bengal FC resulted in his first goal for the club, which turned out to be the decisive winner. During their victory over Bengaluru FC, Guarrotxena also played a crucial role, providing an assist.
View this post on Instagram
Known for his ability to find spaces behind the defence, link up, and creativity, Guarrotxena has proven to be a menace for opposition defenders. Despite the absence of Diaz, he has taken on the responsibility in the attacking front for Mumbai City FC, making a substantial impact in a short span of time.
