The Indian Super League (ISL) roared back to life after the October international break with an electrifying Matchweek 5, showcasing a series of thrilling encounters.

The action kicked off with a sensational five-goal thriller, where Chennaiyin FC rallied from behind to secure a dramatic 3-2 victory over NorthEast United FC on the road. This was followed by a crucial top-of-the-table clash in which Bengaluru FC edged past Punjab FC, solidifying their position at the summit.

In Saturday's doubleheader, Mumbai City FC celebrated their first win of the campaign with a 2-1 triumph against FC Goa, while the Mariners continued their unbeaten streak in the Kolkata derby, triumphing 2-0 over East Bengal FC.

Mohammedan SC struck early against Kerala Blasters FC, but the dynamic forward duo of Kwame Peprah and Jesus Jimenez once again made their mark, delivering a decisive performance to secure all three points for their side in Kolkata.

Rei Tachikawa and Jordan Murray propelled Jamshedpur FC to an impressive third consecutive win at the Furnace, overcoming Hyderabad FC 2-1 in the week's closing fixture.

Here’s a look at the standout players from Matchweek 5.

Goalkeeper

Albino Gomes (Jamshedpur FC)

After keeping a clean sheet and saving a penalty against East Bengal FC before the break, Gomes shone once again under the bar. Although he didn’t maintain a clean sheet this time, he played a crucial role in securing another home win for his team. Gomes made himself big in goal, recording seven saves against Hyderabad FC—the highest by any keeper this week.

Defenders

Mehtab Singh (Mumbai City FC) (Captain)

Singh delivered a stellar performance at the Fatorda, playing a vital role in securing his team’s first win of the season. He excelled in limiting the Gaurs’ chances of finding the equalizer, recording nine clearances and three blocks against FC Goa.

Tom Aldred (Mohun Bagan Super Giant)

The Mariners achieved their second consecutive clean sheet of the season, with Aldred playing a crucial role in securing another derby victory. He showcased his skill with an impressive passing accuracy of 98.4% against East Bengal FC.

Stephen Eze (Jamshedpur FC)

Stephen Eze remained a key figure in the Men of Steel's defence, winning ten duels against Hyderabad FC—the joint highest tally by any player in a single game this matchweek, alongside Irfan Yadwad. Additionally, Eze made 13 clearances in this match, tying for the highest number by a player in a single game this season, a record he also shares from his performance against Mumbai City FC on September 21, 2024.

Roshan Singh (Bengaluru FC)

Roshan Singh netted the only goal of the match as the Blues returned to winning ways, extending their unbeaten run to five matches. The full-back excelled in Bengaluru FC's clash with Punjab FC, winning all five of his duels—the highest tally by any Indian player this matchweek—while maintaining a perfect 100% success rate.

Midfielders

Yoell Van Nieff (Mumbai City FC)

Yoell van Nieff scored one goal and assisted another as the Islanders secured their first win of the season against FC Goa. In addition to his offensive contributions, he also played a vital defensive role, accumulating four interceptions throughout the match.

Vibin Mohanan (Kerala Blasters FC)

Mohanan partnered with Mohammed Azhar in the centre of the park against Mohammedan SC, with Adrian Luna making his first start of the season. Mohanan played a pivotal role in his team's victory, winning back possession ten times—the highest tally by an Indian player in a single game in the ongoing Indian Super League season.

Greg Stewart (Mohun Bagan Super Giant)

Stewart was once again instrumental against their rivals, this time facing East Bengal FC. The Scottish playmaker had a challenging night for the Red and Gold Brigade, creating a flurry of chances. He has now earned a spot in the Team of the Matchweek for the second consecutive week.

Forwards

Wilmar Jordan Gil (Chennaiyin FC)

The Colombian forward received his first start of the season from Owen Coyle and didn’t disappoint, netting a brace to lead his side to a thrilling victory over NorthEast United FC. His two goals came from an expected goal tally of 0.82, while his expected goal differential (G-xG) of 1.18 is the highest recorded for any player in a single game during Matchweek 5.

Jamie Maclaren (Mohun Bagan Super Giant)

In his second consecutive start for Mohun Bagan SG, Maclaren continued his scoring streak. After netting his first goal against Mohammedan SC in Matchweek 4, the Aussie forward struck the opening goal in the Kolkata derby against East Bengal FC with a first-time finish from a delivery by Manvir Singh.

Jesus Jimenez (Kerala Blasters FC)

Jesus Jimenez has begun to look increasingly dangerous, putting in another strong performance for the Blasters. Following a goal and an assist against Odisha FC, Jimenez netted the decisive goal against Mohammedan SC in Matchweek 5, securing his side's second win of the season.

Head coach

Mikael Stahre (Kerala Blasters FC)

Stahre executed his tactics flawlessly against Mohammedan SC. After trailing by a goal at halftime, he brought on Peprah, who proved to be the super sub once again, scoring the equalizer before Jimenez netted the winner.