ISL 2023-24: Team of Matchweek 13
In an thrilling Matchweek characterized by a plethora of goals and remarkable comebacks, let's delve into the standout performers who make up the Team of Matchweek 13.
Matchweek 13 marked the return of the Indian Super League (ISL) 2023-24 season after a month-long hiatus. Upon resuming action, teams delivered an exciting week filled with captivating fixtures, a flurry of goals, and notable comebacks. Hyderabad FC was the only team that failed to find the net during the week. The six matches in the previous Matchweek involved 11 teams, with Chennaiyin FC being the sole team absent from the lineup.
The spotlight shone on incredible comebacks, particularly from Odisha FC and Jamshedpur FC, who overturned deficits against Kerala Blasters FC and Mumbai City FC, respectively. FC Goa extended their unbeaten run, keeping Hyderabad FC winless this season. The enthralling Kolkata Derby showcased the highest level of competition, resulting in a shared outcome, as did the clash between Jamshedpur FC and NorthEast United FC. Punjab FC secured their second ISL win by staging a comeback against Bengaluru FC.
The #MenOfSteel dominate the #ISLTOTW for Matchweek 13! 🤩
— Indian Super League (@IndSuperLeague) February 5, 2024
How do you rate this team? 🤔#ISL #ISL10 #LetsFootball | @Sports18 @eastbengal_fc pic.twitter.com/8LtCEN9rwe
In retrospect of Matchweek 13, here is our Team of the Matchweek, featuring a 3-4-3 formation.
Goalkeeper
Amrinder Singh (Odisha FC)
The Odisha FC goalkeeper played a pivotal role in their 2-1 victory against Kerala Blasters FC during their clash at the Kalinga Stadium on Friday. Despite Kerala Blasters taking a one-goal lead into the second half with Dimitrios Diamantakos' goal, Singh's impressive performance prevented further goals. Despite their relentless attacks, Kerala Blasters FC couldn't find the net, providing Odisha FC with an opportunity to stage a comeback.
Defenders
Provat Lakra (Jamshedpur FC)
Jamshedpur FC featured in two matches during Matchweek 13, facing NorthEast United FC and Mumbai City FC. Across both games, the Men of Steel allowed a total of three goals. Lakra, commanding the right flank in the defensive line, delivered an impressive performance, thwarting numerous opposition attacks from his side. Particularly noteworthy was his pivotal role in Jamshedpur FC's remarkable comeback against the Islanders, where Lakra played a crucial part in ensuring his team avoided conceding any additional goals.
Dimitrios Chatziisaias (Punjab FC)
Despite a challenging start to their debut ISL season, Punjab FC has shown remarkable adaptation to the league's standards. In a notable turnaround, the Shers from the North secured a convincing 3-1 victory against Bengaluru FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi. Guiding the backline, Chatziisaias played a pivotal role as Punjab FC limited Bengaluru FC to just one goal on their home turf. The Greek defender has firmly established himself as a dependable pillar in the Shers' defensive unit.
Jay Gupta (FC Goa)
Gupta has displayed promising potential in the left-back position, showcasing an admirable work rate. The 22-year-old played a pivotal role for the Gaurs, contributing significantly to seamless transitions from defense to attack. In their recent 2-0 victory over Hyderabad FC on Thursday, Gupta not only demonstrated defensive prowess but also provided an assist. His valuable contributions extended to aiding his team in maintaining another clean sheet, further solidifying their impressive campaign thus far.
Midfielders
Ajay Chhetri (East Bengal FC)
Despite making only two appearances this season, Chhetri has already made a significant impact by scoring the opening goal against arch-rivals Mohun Bagan Super Giants in the Kolkata Derby. In the highly anticipated fixture that ended in a thrilling 2-2 draw, Chhetri consistently posed a threat to the Mariners' defense, showcasing his prowess and effectiveness on the field.
Jeremy Manzorro (Jamshedpur FC)
The French midfielder delivered one of his standout performances this season, securing a crucial brace for his team. He found the net from open play and then calmly converted from the spot, orchestrating one of the most remarkable comebacks of the season. In a stunning turnaround, Jamshedpur FC emerged victorious with a 3-2 scoreline against Mumbai City FC, overcoming a challenging 0-2 deficit. Manzorro's stellar contributions earned him the well-deserved Player of the Match award.
Madih Talal (Punjab FC)
Talal has consistently been the midfield commander for Punjab FC throughout the season. In their impressive 3-1 victory against Bengaluru FC in Matchweek 13, the French midfielder showcased his influence by not only registering an assist but also adding to his goal tally with his third of the season. His multifaceted contribution played a key role in Punjab FC's convincing performance in that match.
Imran Khan (Jamshedpur FC)
Khan has played a pivotal role in Jamshedpur FC's attack, showcasing his goal-scoring ability in both matches during Matchweek 13. In the opening fixture of the week, the 28-year-old found the back of the net, scoring the opener against NorthEast United FC in a 1-1 draw. His influence was even more pronounced in the final game of the week. Despite conceding two goals in the first half against a formidable Mumbai City FC side, Jamshedpur FC faced intense pressure. However, Khan led the charge in their comeback, scoring the team's first goal. The match concluded with a thrilling 3-2 victory for Jamshedpur FC, securing all three points in the process.
Forwards
Roy Krishna (Odisha FC) (Captain)
Krishna has been in outstanding form for the Kalinga Warriors throughout the season, and his performance against Kerala Blasters FC was no exception. Despite an early lead secured by Dimitrios Diamantakos for Kerala Blasters FC, the Fijian forward single-handedly turned the game around in the second half, scoring two goals and sealing a 2-1 victory for Odisha FC. Krishna's exceptional ability to penetrate through opposing defenses has consistently posed a significant challenge for the opposition backline. His dynamic and impactful play has been a constant concern for rival teams.
Carlos Martinez (FC Goa)
The Spaniard showcased his goal-scoring prowess by securing a brace in FC Goa's away victory against Hyderabad FC at the GMC Balayogi Athletic Stadium. With his two goals in that match, Martinez elevated his season tally to five, underlining his significant contribution to the team.
Dimitrios Petratos (Mohun Bagan SG)
In the Kolkata Derby against East Bengal FC, Mohun Bagan Super Giants found themselves on the brink of experiencing their first-ever defeat against the Red and Gold Brigade in the ISL. However, in the 87th minute, Petratos displayed his brilliance by unleashing a powerful shot into the net from close range, securing an equaliser for the Mariners. His dynamic performance in that game highlighted his capability to deliver in crucial moments and emphasized his effectiveness in high-stakes matches.
Head coach: Khalid Jamil (Jamshedpur FC)
