The 2024-25 season of the Indian Super League (ISL) has kicked off with thrilling action in the opening matchweeks, enthralling fans with spectacular goal-scoring moments. However, the fourth matchweek marked a notable shift, as two matches ended in goalless draws for the first time this season, with four out of six fixtures finishing in a stalemate.

From Hyderabad FC earning their first point of the season against Chennaiyin FC to Odisha FC’s comeback against Kerala Blasters FC from a two-goal deficit, and Mumbai City FC playing out a draw against table-toppers Bengaluru FC, along with FC Goa’s late equalizer against NorthEast United FC at Fatorda, the recently concluded matchweek was eventful in every sense with its tight affairs.

Matchweek four ended with Saturday’s doubleheader, where Jamshedpur FC beat East Bengal FC, and Mohun Bagan SG registered a convincing 3-0 win against their city rivals, Mohammedan SC.

With October’s international break underway, let’s delve into the key takeaways from matchweek four and relive the thrilling fixtures in a brief catch-up.

Spirited Hyderabad FC get off the mark

Hyderabad FC secured their first clean sheet at home in 12 matches, last achieving this feat against Mohun Bagan SG in the 2022–23 ISL playoffs. With this performance, the Yellow and Black opened their points tally following a goalless draw against Chennaiyin FC.

Despite playing with 10 men, Thangboi Singto’s side displayed resilience against the Marina Machans, effectively absorbing the relentless pressure from their opponents. Captain Alex Saji, who was awarded the ‘Player of the Match,’ took on significant responsibilities, partnering effectively with Stefan Sapic in defence. At the same time, goalkeeper Arshdeep Singh made crucial saves to ensure that Hyderabad FC shared the spoils against Owen Coyle’s team.

The Blues' hunt for away win continues

Bengaluru FC are off to a flying start in the ISL 2024-25 season, sitting atop the league table with 10 points from four matches. However, they have struggled to carry their home-winning streak into away games. After securing three consecutive victories in their opening home fixtures, the Blues extended their unbeaten run to four matches, playing out a goalless draw against Mumbai City FC at the Mumbai Football Arena.

Interestingly, this marked the first 0-0 result in this fixture, and the Blues have now failed to score in each of their last three encounters with the Islanders, their longest such streak against any team in league history. Additionally, Gerard Zaragoza’s men have stretched their winless away run to 12 matches.

Sadiku and Ajaraie just can't stop scoring

Armando Sadiku and Alaeddine Ajaraie continued their goal-scoring spree, each netting a brace as the two sides played out a thrilling 3-3 draw at Fatorda. The Albanian and the Moroccan have both scored four goals in the ongoing ISL season, jointly sharing the top spot in this regard.

This match marked the 11th draw between the Gaurs and the Highlanders, the most in any fixture in the league. In fact, four of the last six meetings between these two sides have ended in a stalemate (W1, L1). Sadiku’s brace against NorthEast United FC was his third of the league season, while Ajaraie became the second player after Elano to score in each of his first four appearances in the ISL.

Jamshedpur FC record their best start in the league

Jamshedpur FC are enjoying their best start to the league, having secured victories in three out of their first four fixtures, which places them third in the points table. The Men of Steel are now unbeaten in their last four ISL matches against East Bengal FC, following their 2-0 victory in Saturday’s opener—marking their longest unbeaten run against the Kolkata-based club in the league.

Rei Tachikawa opened the scoring with a stunning strike from the edge of the box, netting his second consecutive goal against East Bengal FC, while Lalchununga scored the other with an own goal. Additionally, Albino Gomes, who earned the ‘Player of the Match’ award, denied Saul Crespo’s penalty attempt, marking his fifth penalty save and making him the first goalkeeper to achieve this milestone.

Mohun Bagan SG continue domination in Kolkata derby

Mohun Bagan SG have solidified their dominance in the Kolkata derby. Having remained unbeaten against East Bengal FC in the ISL since both teams entered the league, the Mariners have now extended this impressive run against fellow Kolkata club Mohammedan SC.

Jose Molina’s men built a commanding three-goal lead in the opening half, thanks to goals from Jamie Maclaren, Greg Stewart, and Subhasish Bose. Mohun Bagan SG have scored three goals in the first half four times, with three of those instances occurring against rival Kolkata clubs (twice against East Bengal FC and once against Mohammedan SC).