ISL 2024-25: Team of Matchweek 18

Matchweek 18 kicked off with a goalless stalemate between Mohun Bagan and Chennaiyin FC, setting the tone for a dramatic week. Odisha FC stunned Bengaluru FC with a thrilling comeback victory, while Hyderabad FC secured a memorable win against Khalid Jamil’s resilient Jamshedpur FC.

East Bengal bolstered their playoff hopes with a crucial home win against Kerala Blasters FC, and FC Goa outclassed Chennaiyin FC to strengthen their Shield ambitions. The week concluded with Mumbai City FC delighting their home fans by returning to winning ways.

Here is the Team of the Week, featuring a 4-3-3 formation.

Coach: Manolo Marquez

Marquez’s side secured a solid 2-0 victory over Chennaiyin FC, climbing to second place in the standings. Given that Chennaiyin FC had held league leaders Mohun Bagan Super Giant to a goalless draw in Matchweek 17, breaking through their defence was never going to be easy. However, FC Goa capitalized on their chances, netting twice while delivering an even more impressive defensive display, limiting Owen Coyle’s side to zero shots on target. Marquez’s insistence on maintaining attacking intent despite the lead played a key role, and he deserves credit for that.

Goalkeeper

Mohammed Nawaz (Chennaiyin FC)

Nawaz was instrumental in Chennaiyin FC securing a draw this week against Mohun Bagan SG. With an impressive save percentage of 77.8%, he made seven vital saves that denied the opposition any opportunity to score. Despite a 0-2 loss to FC Goa later in the week, he made five saves against his former side.

Defenders

Manoj Mohammed (Hyderabad FC)

Mohammed delivered a standout performance this week, showcasing his impact on both ends of the pitch. The full-back was defensively resolute and played a pivotal role in Hyderabad FC’s dramatic win over Jamshedpur FC. Manoj provided the decisive assist for the winning goal and registered two assists overall in the game. Over his 90 minutes, he completed 21 successful passes with a 75% accuracy rate. Defensively, he won four of six duels and all three of his tackles, highlighting his ability to recover possession effectively.

Hijazi Maher (East Bengal FC)

Maher emerged as the hero for East Bengal in Matchweek 18. The Jordanian defender made the most of his towering presence, scoring a decisive headed goal that sealed a vital 2-1 victory for the Red and Gold Brigade. Beyond his match-winning contribution, Maher was a rock at the back, delivering a commanding defensive performance. He registered eight clearances, one block, and one interception while maintaining an impressive 77% passing accuracy, showcasing his composure and reliability under pressure.

Sandesh Jhingan (FC Goa - Captain)

Jhingan played a critical role in FC Goa’s defensive setup, completing 40 of his 50 passes, achieving an 80% passing accuracy. His defensive contributions included three interceptions and winning all seven of his aerial duels. He was instrumental in securing a clean sheet for FC Goa against Chennaiyin FC during their 2-0 win.

Aakash Sangwan (FC Goa)

Full-back Sangwan impressed once again with contributions on both ends of the pitch. Known for his relentless runs and dangerous deliveries, he came close to scoring early, hitting the woodwork, and later registered three shots on target, converting one into a well-deserved goal. Defensively, the 29-year-old contributed with two tackles and one clearance, proving to be a vital cog in his team's success.

Midfielders

Andrei Alba (Hyderabad FC)

Alba played a pivotal role in Hyderabad FC’s thrilling 3-2 victory over Jamshedpur FC. The midfielder showcased his technical prowess by scoring a crucial goal that contributed to Hyderabad FC's comeback win. He played a key role in Hyderabad FC’s midfield, scoring one goal and making 13 final-third entries. He won possession 11 times and made two interceptions. Alba also had a passing accuracy of 84% from 42 passes, contributing to smooth transitions from defense to attack.

Jon Toral (Mumbai City FC)

Jon Toral was highly influential in Mumbai City FC’s midfield during their win against Mohammedan SC. He completed 26 passes in the final third with 81% accuracy and won 12 of his 15 duels. Toral also completed all seven of his dribbles, highlighting his ability to progress the ball effectively under pressure. He was instrumental in creative chances for Mumbai CIty FC in the absence of Yoell van Nieff.

Iker Guarrotxena (FC Goa)

In FC Goa's 2-0 victory over Chennaiyin FC, the Spanish midfielder put on an impressive display, slicing through the opposition defense with his skill and technical brilliance. Guarrotxena registered two shots on target, netting the opening goal, while completing 85% of his passes and winning four ground duels. He also completed two out of four dribbles and made five touches in the opposition box. Additionally, the Spaniard contributed with 18 successful passes.

Forwards

Mahesh Naorem (East Bengal FC)

Naorem's pace and dribbling skills troubled Kerala Blasters FC defenders consistently. He provided an assist and was a key outlet in East Bengal FC's attacking play. He made significant contributions in East Bengal FC’s attack as he provided one assist and created four chances. Naorem completed 11 penalty area entries, delivered five successful crosses, and maintained a passing accuracy of 74% in the opposition half, ensuring consistent offensive pressure.

Diego Mauricio (Odisha FC)

Mauricio was the hero for Odisha FC, scoring twice from the penalty spot as they came from behind to claim all three points against Bengaluru FC. The Brazilian striker expertly converted both penalties, taking his season tally to nine goals. He also contributed to 13 goals so far this season. He had four shots on target, five touches in the opposition box, and won three duels. Mauricio also played a role in hold-up play, completing 12 passes in the final third with a 78% accuracy rate.

Ramhlunchhunga (Hyderabad FC)

Ramhlunchhunga played a key role in Hyderabad FC’s 3-2 comeback victory over Jamshedpur FC. His precise delivery in the 69th minute set up Joseph Sunny’s equaliser, bringing Hyderabad FC level at a crucial moment in the game. Operating in the attacking third, Ramhlunchhunga showcased his creativity and vision, threading an accurate pass that allowed Sunny to finish with composure. His contribution helped shift the momentum in Hyderabad FC’s favor, ultimately leading to Andrei Alba’s winning goal just minutes later.

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2024-2025