Matchweek 12 of the Indian Super League (ISL) delivered absolute entertainment, high-voltage drama and showcased the league's trademark unpredictability. Of the six matches played, only one ended in a draw which came in a thrilling, high-scoring encounter between Bengaluru FC and FC Goa.

The standout feature of the Matchweek was the late goals. Four out of six matches featured dramatic late strikes, with teams snatching equalisers or winners in the dying moments, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.

As the year draws to a close and another Matchweek wraps up, here are the biggest talking points from an action-packed Matchweek.

Chennaiyin FC finally secure their first home win

Chennaiyin FC have had a mixed start to the season, with their away form being the standout positive. Prior to their clash against Hyderabad FC, the team had secured three wins, all on the road. However, replicating that form at home had proven elusive, with two losses and two draws at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. That changed in Matchweek 12, as they clinched a hard-fought victory over Hyderabad FC.

A solitary early goal proved decisive as Chennaiyin FC finally ended their winless streak at home, much to the delight of their fans. Last season, the team struggled away from home but delivered consistently strong results on home turf. Should they rediscover that same form this season, their pursuit of a playoff spot will become significantly smoother.

Siverio airlines

Jamshedpur FC handed Punjab FC a reality check, thanks to a stellar performance from forward Javier Siverio, who scored a brace, including the match-winner. His goals condemned Punjab FC to their fourth defeat of the season, despite the visitors creating numerous chances throughout the game.

Siverio now ranks fourth for the most headed goals in ISL history, behind Mourtada Fall, Sunil Chhetri, and Bartholomew Ogbeche. His impact has been so profound that neither Jamshedpur FC nor his previous teams have ever lost a match in which he has scored. With his current tally surpassing his three goals from last season, this campaign is shaping up to be a promising one for the forward.

Bengaluru FC fans emerge as team’s 12th man

The Sree Kanteerava Stadium has always been a fortress for Bengaluru FC, largely due to their passionate fanbase. The Blues' supporters have remained loyal through thick and thin, creating a vibrant atmosphere that has inspired the team to perform at their best.

In their recent match against FC Goa, Bengaluru FC were on the verge of losing their first home game of the season. Trailing by two goals, Jorge Díaz struck late to salvage a crucial point for the hosts. The players’ resilience was mirrored by the unwavering support from the fans, who rallied behind their team until the final whistle.

Bengaluru FC head coach Gerard Zaragoza acknowledged the impact of the fans after the game, stating,

“The Kanteerava (crowd) and the people, they showed that they won. They showed that here, it's not easy to win for any club and for any coach.”

FC Goa head coach Manolo Marquez also waxed lyrical about the home supporters.

“The crowd is fantastic. They support (the team) a lot. I would like more crowds in India like this when the team is losing 2-0. They pushed (the team),” the Spaniard stated.

Boumous’ night in Kolkata

Football often turns on the smallest of margins, and Hugo Boumous proved just that in Odisha FC’s victory over East Bengal FC. Linking up brilliantly with Diego Mauricio, Boumous unleashed a stunning strike into the top corner to secure three crucial points at the Salt Lake Stadium.

For Boumous, this match marked a return to familiar territory, having previously enjoyed success at the stadium while playing for Mohun Bagan Super Giant. Once again, he emerged as a thorn in East Bengal FC’s flesh, continuing his fine record against the Kolkata club.

With his winning goal, Boumous has recorded nine goal contributions (four goals and five assists) against East Bengal FC, the highest tally by any player against the Red and Gold Brigade in ISL history.

Mohun Bagan SG’s fighting spirit shines through

Mohun Bagan SG entered their game against Kerala Blasters FC as favourites, but the second half at the Salt Lake Stadium turned the match on its head. Despite conceding only once in their previous seven matches, the Mariners found themselves trailing after conceding two goals in the space of 26 minutes.

However, the introduction of Jason Cummings and Ashique Kuruniyan in the final 10 minutes transformed the game. The duo combined for an equaliser in the 86th minute, putting the hosts back in the game. Just when it seemed the match would end in a draw, centre-back Alberto Rodríguez unleashed a long-range effort that took a deflection and found the back of the net. The dramatic winner sent the home crowd into raptures as the Mariners celebrated an incredible comeback.

While it wasn’t their finest performance, Mohun Bagan SG showed grit and determination to grind out a crucial win. Their resilience and fighting spirit underlined why they remain at the top of the table, demonstrating the qualities of true champions.

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Mohun Bagan Super GiantBengaluru FCChennaiyin FC2024-2025 Hugo BoumousJavier Siverio