Goalkeepers are renowned as leaders at the back, celebrated for their crucial saves in decisive moments. Custodians demonstrate agile movements and sharp instincts between the sticks but their ultimate test comes during penalty kicks, where the pressure is paramount.

The goalkeeper’s heroics in these moments not only boosts their team's confidence but also helps them secure vital victories. Smart anticipation, cat-like reflexes, and immense self-confidence in nerve-wracking situations exemplify a goalkeeper’s skill set.

The Indian Super League (ISL) 2023–24 season has showcased several goalkeepers exhibiting their potential by thwarting penalties, denying opponents from finding the back of the net. Let's delve into the performances of these goalkeepers who stood strong during penalty shootouts.

Sachin Suresh (Kerala Blasters FC) – 2 penalty saves

Kerala Blasters FC’s young goalkeeper tops the list with two crucial penalty saves against East Bengal FC and Odisha FC. In his debut ISL season, the Kerala-born footballer showcased outstanding performance under the bar, providing assurance to his defence.

Suresh's first penalty save came against Odisha FC’s Diego Mauricio, whom he denied in Kochi. After Mauricio gave the Kalinga Warriors the lead, they had a chance to double it, but the Blasters’ goalkeeper remained composed, diving to his right to thwart Mauricio's fierce strike. Suresh’s heroics was important as Kerala Blasters FC came from behind to beat Sergio Lobera’s side.

Suresh had a stellar outing against East Bengal FC in Kolkata, displaying his penalty-saving abilities to secure a remarkable victory. Despite initially saving Cleiton Silva’s right-footed strike in the dying minutes of the second half (which was cancelled due to encroachment), the 23-year-old remained focused. He correctly anticipated Silva’s movements and saved the Brazilian’s second attempt, making him the first goalkeeper to achieve consecutive penalty saves in the season. His saves were crucial as Dimitrios Diamantakos scored a late goal to secure a 2-1 victory for the the Blasters.

Mirshad Michu (NorthEast United FC) – 2 penalty saves

Mirshad Michu has matched Suresh's feat by making two penalty saves in the ISL's tenth edition, playing for NorthEast United FC. In a match against Jamshedpur FC, Michu conceded a penalty in the 18th minute after fouling Alen Stevanovic. Although he initially stopped Daniel Chima Chukwu’s right-footed shot, the Nigerian scored from the rebound, giving Jamshedpur FC the lead. Despite this setback, Michu's team rallied with two dramatic injury-time goals, securing a thrilling win in front of their home fans.

In another game against Odisha FC at home, NorthEast United FC quickly took a 2-0 lead within 16 minutes. When Sergio Lobera’s side awarded a penalty for a foul on Pranjal Bhumij in the box, Michu again demonstrated his composure under pressure. He thwarted Roy Krishna’s powerful shot with a strong right-hand save, diving to his bottom right side. Michu’s performance ensured a clean sheet for his team by the end of the match as NorthEast United FC finished their season on a positive note despite missing out on the playoffs.

Ravi Kumar (Punjab FC) – 1 Penalty Save

Punjab FC goalkeeper Ravi Kumar pulled off a stunning save during their 1-1 draw against NorthEast United FC in Matchweek 3. Juan Pedro Benali’s side were awarded a penalty in the dying minutes of the first half after Khaiminthang Lhungdim fouled an opponent inside the box.

Kumar reacted swiftly, diving to his bottom left to deny Romain Philippoteaux’s low effort. Kumar's save proved crucial as Punjab FC later equalised through Melroy Assisi in the second half, resulting in spoils shared between the two teams.

Rehenesh T.P. (Jamshedpur FC) – 1 Penalty Save

Jeremy Manzorro grabbed the headlines with two superb free-kick goals during Jamshedpur FC's dominant 4-0 victory over Punjab FC. However, goalkeeper TP Rehenesh also played a pivotal role in securing the win with a stellar performance.

In the match, Punjab FC's Luka Majcen won a penalty in the final minutes of the first half, presenting a chance to pull his team back into contention. Yet, Rehenesh demonstrated astute anticipation, correctly reading Majcen's subtle movements during his approach. The goalkeeper dived to his right and safely gathered the ball, maintaining his composure throughout the decisive moment.

Rehenesh's contribution extended beyond the penalty save, as he made a total of seven crucial saves against Staikos Vergetis' side, ultimately earning a vital clean sheet for Jamshedpur FC.

Vishal Kaith (Mohun Bagan SG) – 1 Penalty Save

Mohun Bagan SG secured a convincing 3-1 victory over East Bengal FC, continuing their tradition of defeating their arch-rivals each season after a draw in their first encounter. The match was marked by goalkeeper Vishal Kaith's outstanding penalty save, setting the stage for their success.

Kaith's crucial intervention came early in the high-octane Kolkata Derby, preventing Cleiton Silva from converting a penalty that could have given East Bengal FC an early lead. Anticipating Silva's right-footed curler, Kaith executed a perfectly timed dive to punch the ball away, showcasing his swift reactions and composure under pressure. His heroic effort not only denied the Red and Gold Brigade a chance to break the deadlock but also provided a significant boost to Mohun Bagan SG.

This pivotal save proved instrumental as Mohun Bagan SG capitalised on the momentum, with Jason Cummings scoring shortly after to set the tone for their commanding victory in front of a passionate crowd.