ISL Fantasy: Best differential picks for Matchweek 21
As the season nears its climax, identifying lesser-known players who can make a difference could be the key to success.

The playoffs are on the horizon, and the grind is stronger than ever. Matchweek 21 is about to kick off with double fixtures for some, while Kerala Blasters FC miss another Matchweek.
The start of the Matchweek sees Punjab FC face off with Mohun Bagan SG, and The Shers end the week with a match against Odisha FC. Odisha FC also play a double fixture, facing FC Goa earlier in the week.
NorthEast United FC face off against Mumbai City FC in a crucial clash set to take place in Shillong. Meanwhile, Hyderabad FC go up against Mohammedan SC, and East Bengal FC take on Chennaiyin FC as they look to finish in a strong position.
With only five Matchweeks left before the playoffs, it's time for fantasy managers to look beyond the usual stars and identify differentials who can make a difference.
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Here are five under-the-radar players who could deliver big in Matchweek 21.
1) Javier Siverio (Jamshedpur FC) – 8% ownership
Siverio is finding form at the right time, scoring a brace against FC Goa in Matchweek 20, earning 11 points. He scored in the 37th minute, calmly slotting the ball into the net. Later, in the 68th minute, he sealed the win with a perfect header. His performance helped Jamshedpur FC leapfrog FC Goa into second place, keeping their Shield hopes alive. He is the second top goalscorer for Jamshedpur FC with six goals.
With 54 total fantasy points and a price of ₹6.1 CR, Jamshedpur FC are set to face Bengaluru FC next week, making him a solid attacking option against a struggling defence.
.2) Thaer Krouma (Mumbai City FC) – 3% ownership
A defensive powerhouse, Krouma has 58 total points and is valued at ₹5.1 CR. Playing in midfield once again, the Syrian earned points for a clean sheet against East Bengal FC before coming off after the hour mark. With just 3% ownership, he is a rare pick in fantasy squads. He has contributed two goals and an assist this season, showing he can rack up points in different ways.
With Mumbai City FC about to face NorthEast United FC in a crucial bid for the playoffs, he would be a great pick for managers looking for a differential option at the back.
3) Jerry Mawihmingthanga (Odisha FC) – 1% ownership
Although Jerry Mawihmingthanga blanked in Odisha FC’s last fixture, he remains a force in their attack. His price of ₹6.6 CR and low ownership make him a high-risk, high-reward differential pick for Matchweek 21.
In his recent match against NorthEast United FC, he played 45 minutes but got into dangerous positions leading the line with Diego Mauricio drifting wide.
Prior to their game against NorthEast United FC, he had four goals in his previous five games and will be keen to get back on the scoresheet. With an upcoming double fixture against Punjab FC and FC Goa, Jerry Mawihmingthanga has an opportunity to make a greater impact.
4) Andrei Alba (Hyderabad FC) - 8% ownership
Alba, a key midfielder for Hyderabad FC, has been a consistent performer for the side despite their struggles this season. With 83 total points so far, he remains a valuable asset as Hyderabad FC prepare for their upcoming fixture against bottom-placed Mohammedan SC. He tops the list for Hyderabad FC this season in terms of points and is also their top scorer, having netted thrice in the ongoing campaign.
5) Luka Majcen (Punjab FC) – 6% ownership
Majcen was a key contributor in Punjab FC’s recent fixture against Odisha FC, providing a goal and an assist off the bench for an eight-point return. With 63 total points and a price of ₹8.6 CR, he remains a strong attacking differential with Punjab FC set to play twice.
He is the top goalscorer for the Shers with seven goals and ranks in the top five among Punjab FC players in total points.
With the playoffs tightening and Punjab FC facing Odisha FC and Mohun Bagan SG in Matchweek 21 from the ninth position on the table, he has the potential to build on his recent success and deliver another high-scoring points tally.