Keeping the best for last: A look back at closing goals from every ISL season
Many of these last goals of the campaign have profoundly changed match results and influenced the fortunes of numerous teams.
The Indian Super League (ISL) has witnessed numerous iconic moments over the last decade, particularly memorable late goals that epitomise the drama, skill, and passion of Indian football.
These pivotal goals have decisively altered game outcomes and shaped the fortunes of many teams. Players have consistently risen to the occasion at the season's end, showcasing their talent and determination on Indian football's grandest stage.
These goals not only decided clubs' destinies but also resonated deeply with supporters nationwide, becoming unforgettable moments etched in the collective memory of Indian football fans.
As we reflect, we recall the final goals scored in each season thus far.
ISL 2014: Mohammad Rafique (ATK FC)
During the 2014 ISL season, Mohammad Rafique's last-minute goal became a significant and historic moment. In front of 60,000 spectators at Mumbai's DY Patil Stadium, the first-ever ISL final unfolded in an exhilarating atmosphere.
Rafique's goal, scored in the 95th minute deep into injury time, came from a near-post header off a corner. This decisive strike was the only goal separating ATK FC from Kerala Blasters FC, clinching the victory for the Kolkata side and marking their first ISL Cup triumph.
ISL 2015: Stiven Mendoza (Chennaiyin FC)
In the thrilling final match of ISL 2015, Stiven Mendoza delivered a decisive last-minute goal that secured the ISL Cup for Chennaiyin FC. The match saw unexpected twists, with Chennaiyin FC equalising through a Laxmikant Kattimani own goal before Mendoza's late heroics sealed a 3-2 victory.
Mendoza's crucial goal showcased his skill and determination under pressure, overcoming his team's challenges and ensuring a spectacular end to the season. Throughout the 2015 ISL season, Mendoza was prolific, scoring 11 goals in just 11 games for Chennaiyin FC, a feat that earned him the Golden Boot award.
ISL 2016: Henrique Sereno (ATK FC)
In the ISL 2016 final between ATK FC and Kerala Blasters FC, Sereno played a pivotal role for ATK FC by scoring the equaliser. His goal, coming in the 44th minute, cancelled out Mohammed Rafi's opening goal for Kerala Blasters FC in the 37th minute. The match ended in a 1-1 draw after 120 minutes of play, leading to a tense penalty shootout.
ATK FC emerged victorious in the penalty shootout, prevailing 4-3 to claim their second ISL Cup in three years. Sereno's crucial equalising goal not only kept ATK FC in contention for the title but also set the stage for their eventual triumph in the shootout.
ISL 2017-18: Miku (Bengaluru FC)
In the ISL 2017-18 final, Bengaluru FC forward Miku concluded a remarkable debut season by scoring the final goal of the campaign. The Venezuelan showcased his goal-scoring ability once again by heading in a cross from Udanta Singh deep into injury time. Despite Miku's impressive performance, Bengaluru FC suffered a 3-2 defeat, resulting in Chennaiyin FC claiming their second ISL Cup triumph.
ISL 2018-19: Rahul Bheke (Bengaluru FC)
Bheke played a crucial role in Bengaluru FC's historic victory in the 2018-19 ISL season, scoring the decisive goal against FC Goa in the 117th minute at the Mumbai Football Arena. His header not only secured Bengaluru FC's first-ever ISL Cup but also created one of the league's most memorable moments.
Born in Mumbai, Bheke's goal in his hometown was symbolic, marking a redemption for Bengaluru FC after the disappointment of the previous season's final.
ISL 2019-20: Javi Hernandez (ATK FC)
Javi Hernandez had a standout season with ATK FC during the 2019–2020 ISL campaign, highlighted by a memorable performance in the final that secured victory for his team. The Spaniard demonstrated his prowess as a match-winner by scoring twice in a crucial showdown against Chennaiyin FC on March 14, 2020.
ATK FC asserted their dominance early in the match, with Hernandez opening the scoring in the 10th minute. The Kolkata side continued their momentum when Edu Garcia added another goal in the second half. Despite a goal from Nerijus Valskis for Chennaiyin FC, ATK FC goalkeeper Arindam Bhattacharja thwarted further attempts from the opposing team.
In a decisive moment, Hernandez sealed the victory by receiving a pass, evading the goalkeeper and two opposition players, and slotting the ball into the net. This goal secured ATK FC's third ISL Cup title and sparked jubilant celebrations in their dugout.
ISL 2020-21: Bipin Singh (Mumbai City FC)
In the ISL 2020-21 season final, Mumbai City FC winger Bipin Singh emerged as the hero by scoring the decisive goal in the dying seconds against Mohun Bagan Super Giant, securing his team's first-ever ISL Cup victory. This historic moment marked one of the league's greatest achievements as Mumbai City FC became the first team to achieve the double in the same season, having previously won the Shield.
The final initially saw David Williams give the Mariners the lead, but Mumbai City FC quickly equalised through an own-goal from Tiri. Both teams created numerous opportunities but struggled to break the deadlock. As the match approached extra time, Singh seized the moment by capitalising on a pass set up by Bartholomew Ogbeche, ensuring Mumbai City FC's triumph with a composed finish
ISL 2021-22: Sahil Tavora (Hyderabad FC)
In the final of the 2021-22 season, Hyderabad FC midfielder Tavora delivered a stunning strike in the 87th minute from outside the box, leveling the score 1-1 against Kerala Blasters FC after Rahul KP had earlier put the Blasters ahead in the second half.
Despite both teams creating chances, the match remained deadlocked through extra time, resulting in a penalty shootout. Hyderabad FC's hero of the hour was goalkeeper Laxmikant Kattimani, who made three crucial saves during the shootout. His stellar performance ensured Hyderabad FC claimed their first-ever ISL title, marking a historic moment in the club's history.
ISL 2022-23: Dimitrios Petratos (Mohun Bagan SG)
In the 2022-23 ISL season final, Mohun Bagan SG clinched the ISL Cup title by defeating Bengaluru FC 4-3 in a penalty shootout, with Petratos playing a pivotal role for his team.
Petratos made a significant impact by scoring twice during the match. He opened the scoring for Mohun Bagan SG, but Bengaluru FC rallied to take the lead. However, the Australian forward equalised for the Mariners by converting a penalty in the 85th minute, levelling the score and sending the game into penalties.
In the shootout, Mohun Bagan SG emerged victorious as they successfully converted all their penalties, while Bengaluru FC missed two of theirs.
ISL 2023-24: Jakub Vojtus (Mumbai City FC)
In the ISL 2023-24 final, Vojtus etched his name in history by scoring the last and his first league goal for Mumbai City FC in a momentous occasion. Facing Mohun Bagan SG, Mumbai City FC initially struggled, conceding a late first-half goal to Jason Cummings.
However, Mumbai City FC staged a remarkable comeback in the second half. Jorge Diaz and Bipin Singh found the net to overturn the deficit and take the lead. In injury time, Vojtus, who had come off the bench, sealed the victory in style by adding another goal to Mumbai City FC's tally.
This goal not only secured the win but also earned Mumbai City FC their second ISL Cup, solidifying their place in ISL history with a memorable triumph.