Matchweek 17 of the Indian Super League (ISL) makes a quick appearance just as the dust is starting to settle on a dramatic matchweek 16.

With no break between the two matchweeks, ISL Fantasy managers have to be on their toes to make quick decisions about their team, especially with three teams playing twice in MW17.

There is also a reason to think more short-term as three winners from Matchweek 17 will win three special exciting prizes. So, it’s key to go heavy in MW17 and try to grab those prizes.

Kerala Blasters FC’s home game against Odisha FC kicks off the matchweek before NorthEast United FC host Odisha FC. Mohammedan SC fresh from a win over Bengaluru FC welcome Chennaiyin FC before Punjab FC host troubled Mumbai City FC.

Friday sees a tasty top-of-the-table clash between Jamshedpur FC and Mohun Bagan SG before Hyderabad FC host Bengaluru FC and Kerala Blasters FC welcome NorthEast United FC in a double-header on Saturday.

The MW concludes with FC Goa’s home game against East Bengal FC.

With an aim to help ISL Fantasy managers gain an edge in the battle to win those three special exciting prizes in Matchweek 17, here’s a look at five differential picks that may help you get there.

Jamie Maclaren (Mohun Bagan SG - 8% ownership)

Mohun Bagan SG are the team to beat in the ISL and their form hasn’t wavered with the difficulty of fixture. Maclaren has started to find his feet in Indian football and the all-time leading goalscorer in the A-League might just be about to explode. His 8% ownership may not be the lowest but his potential ceiling for points is very high from now till the end of the season. Make him a part of your team before others do.

Brison Fernandes (FC Goa - 5% ownership)

The Gaurs midfielder has helped himself to five goals this season but hasn’t yet managed to get on the radar of ISL Fantasy managers. With a double gameweek for FC Goa in MW17, it’s a perfect time to get Brison in your team. His salary of ₹4.7 crore is also very attractive and he can also be a long-term fixture in your team.

Guillermo Fernandez (NorthEast United FC - 4% ownership)

The Highlanders striker has four goals to his name this season and is a big threat going forward for Juan Pedro Benali’s team. While Alaaeddine Ajaraie has rightfully grabbed all the limelight, Guillermo is a very good option to have from a side that is the joint leading goalscoring team in the ISL this season. With an ownership of just 4%, he can make a huge difference in double MW17.

Alberto Noguera (Bengaluru FC - 5% ownership)

The Blues midfielder has started the last three matches for Gerard Zaragoza’s team and is slowly starting to find his rhythm in his new team. He racked up 13 points in MW15 and has also regularly attracted points for passes completed making him a very attractive proposition with the Blues facing Hyderabad FC.

Nickson Macarton (NorthEast United FC - 2% ownership)

The youngster is flourishing at NorthEast United FC under Benali and has three assists and a goal to his name in the last four games. Playing in an advanced role for the Highlanders, Macaron is a solid pick for double MW17 at a price of ₹4.5 crore. With just 2% ownership, he can be that explosive differential in your team.