In modern football, ball possession has often been regarded as a crucial determinant of match outcomes and controlling possession has often been seen as a pathway to victory. However, few teams in the Indian Super League (ISL) have showcased some remarkable performances by achieving success without dominating possession of the ball.

These teams have exemplified a philosophical approach where winning isn’t solely dictated by possession statistics. Their successes often reflect the importance of tactical discipline, counter-attacking strategies and placing emphasis on conversion rates over time spent controlling the ball.

Here’s a look at five teams that secured ISL wins with the lowest possession stats.

1) Jamshedpur FC: 24.93% possession

Jamshedpur FC leads the list with a remarkable 3-1 win over FC Goa in the 2021-22 season, despite holding just 24.93% possession. This match highlighted their clinical finishing and sharp counter-attacking play and they won the League Shield that season.

Nerijus Valskis scored twice, while Jordan Murray added a third late in the game. FC Goa pulled one back through Airam Cabrera, but it proved only a consolation.

2) Jamshedpur FC: 26.67% possession

Jamshedpur FC once again showcased their ability to win without dominating the ball, defeating Mohun Bagan Super Giant 2-1 in the first leg of a semi-final during the 2024-25 season.

Despite having just 26.67% possession, their quick transitions paid off, with Javi Hernandez scoring the decisive goal at the death to give the Men of Steel an edge heading into the second leg.

3) Mohun Bagan Super Giant: 27.76% possession

Following closely behind is Mohun Bagan Super Giant, who have demonstrated their ability to win with limited ball control in the past under former head coach Antonio Habas. Their match against FC Goa during the 2020-21 season in December ended in a 1-0 victory, with the team maintaining just 27.76% possession.

Roy Krishna drew a foul in the dying minutes and converted the resulting penalty to seal all three points in a game where the Mariners defended resolutely and made their chances count.

4) Bengaluru FC: 28.17% possession

Bengaluru FC showed their tactical discipline with a 2-0 away win against FC Goa during the 2022-23 season under Simon Grayson.

They had only three shots on target but were extremely efficient, with Javi Hernandez scoring both goals. FC Goa, despite taking six shots on target, were frustrated by the Bengaluru FC defence.

5) Bengaluru FC: 28.29% possession

Bengaluru FC produced one of their most memorable wins over rivals Mumbai City FC during the 2020-21 season, securing a thumping 4-2 victory. Cleiton Silva and Sunil Chhetri netted braces for the Blues, while Adam Le Fondre scored twice for the opposition.

Bengaluru FC took an early 2-0 lead and, although Mumbai City FC reduced the deficit, the Blues were clinical on the counter. Despite MCFC dominating possession and taking more shots, they couldn’t capitalise on their chances.

Related tags:

Mohun Bagan Super GiantJamshedpur FCBengaluru FC2024-2025