Football might be a game where goals and flair often steal the spotlight, but it’s the art of defending that quietly anchors a team’s success. Week after week in the Indian Super League (ISL), we’ve witnessed players putting in crunching tackles, making brave interventions, and putting their bodies on the line to keep danger at bay.

The 2024–25 ISL season has particularly highlighted the strength of Indian talent in this area. Remarkably, nine out of the top ten players for successful tackles are Indian, showing just how vital these homegrown warriors have been when it comes to regaining possession and disrupting opposition play.

With that in mind, we take a deep dive into the top five players who led the league in successful tackles—masters of defensive timing, positioning, and sheer determination.

Valpuia (Mumbai City FC) – 57 successful tackles in 24 matches

At the top of the tackling charts stands Valpuia, who racked up a league-high 57 successful tackles this season. Slotting in at right-back for Mumbai City FC, Valpuia was trusted with a key role—and he rose to the challenge, delivering with maturity beyond his years. He proved to be a constant obstacle for opposition wingers, shutting down attacks with precision and driving the ball forward with intent. His ability to balance defensive discipline with attacking progression made him one of the standout full-backs of the season.

Lalrinliana Hnamte (Chennaiyin FC) - 53 successful tackles in 22 matches

A fearless presence in the heart of midfield, Hnamte quickly established himself as a key figure at Chennaiyin FC. The 22-year-old adapted seamlessly to his new surroundings and thrived after being entrusted with a bigger role at his new club. Across 22 matches, he made 53 successful tackles, showcasing his sharp sense of timing and composure under pressure. His performances have firmly placed him among the league’s best in midfield battles.

Apuia (Mohun Bagan Super Giant) - 52 successful tackles in 22 matches

Joining him in midfield is Apuia, the ever-industrious force at the centre of Mohun Bagan Super Giant’s engine room. The Indian international settled in smoothly at his new club, excelling both as a defensive anchor and an outlet in attack. His relentless work rate and ability to recover possession were vital to MBSG’s structure, and his tally of 52 successful tackles highlights the consistency and quality of his defensive work.

Subhasish Bose (Mohun Bagan Super Giant) - 44 successful tackles in 25 matches

It was a campaign to cherish for Subhasish Bose, the captain of MBSG’s double-winning squad. Bose continued to be a pillar of strength in defence, just as he has been for three seasons now. His ability to break up attacks quietly yet effectively made him a dependable figure at the back. Remarkably, he also added six goals—all from set-pieces—further underlining his all-round impact.

Naocha Singh (Kerala Blasters FC) – 42 successful tackles in 22 matches

Rounding off the top five is Naocha Singh of Kerala Blasters FC, a left-back who quietly built a reputation for dependability throughout the season. Known for his excellent reading of the game and precise timing, Naocha consistently broke up opposition play with minimal fuss. His composure in one-on-one situations and ability to win the ball cleanly stood out. With 42 successful tackles in 22 matches, he proved to be a reliable and steady presence in defence for the Blasters.