Sparkling excellence: Best individual performances in ISL 2023–24
From Sachin Suresh to Noah Sadaoui, let's revisit some incredible individuals who lit up the ISL 2023–24 season with their match-winning heroics.
From penalty saves to hat-tricks, these performances added to the league's excitement and also displayed the quality and talent of the players. From dazzling displays of skill to clutch moments under pressure, players across various teams shone brightly.
These standout performances highlighted the talent present in the ISL as players not only displayed their skill but also made game-changing contributions for their respective teams and influenced results.
Without further ado, let's delve into the top individual performances from the latest ISL season.
Vikram Partap Singh (Mumbai City FC) vs NorthEast United FC
Vikram Partap Singh concluded the season as the sole Indian to score a hat-trick in this edition. The dynamic forward for the Islanders delivered a stellar performance at the Mumbai Football Arena, becoming the second youngest Indian to score a hat-trick in the ISL. Singh netted three goals, displaying excellent positioning inside the opponent's box, and propelled Mumbai City FC to a comfortable 4-1 victory over NorthEast United FC. He eventually finished the season as the Emerging Player of the League.
Debjit Majumder (Chennaiyin FC) vs Mohun Bagan SG
The Bengali goalkeeper showcased peak form with a stellar performance, guiding his team to a remarkable 3-2 victory over Mohun Bagan Super Giant. Debjit Majumder etched his name in the record books with an impressive display, making 11 crucial saves throughout the match. His agility, quick reflexes, and secure catches thwarted the Mariners' relentless attacks. Particularly noteworthy were his two crucial saves in the final minute, preserving his team's narrow one-goal lead until the final whistle. This pivotal result ensured Chennaiyin FC kept their playoff aspirations alive. They eventually finished in the top six, making a return to the playoffs after a three-season absence.
Noah Sadaoui (FC Goa) vs Hyderabad FC
The match remained deadlocked at 0-0 at half-time, but the introduction of Noah Sadaoui proved pivotal for the Gaurs in the second half, propelling them to a resounding 4-0 victory over Hyderabad FC. The Moroccan winger's sensational hat-trick turned the tide decisively in FC Goa's favour.
Sadaoui wasted no time making an impact, breaking the deadlock just two minutes after stepping onto the pitch, courtesy of Mohammed Yasir's precise pass. He continued to showcase his scoring ability with goals in the 54th and 59th minutes, completing his hat-trick in just 12 minutes of play.
Jeremy Manzorro (Jamshedpur FC) vs Punjab FC
Jamshedpur FC's creator-in-chief Jeremy Manzorro, put on a masterclass performance against Punjab FC, showcasing his free-kick mastery with two stunning goals from dead-ball situations. With pinpoint accuracy and impeccable timing, Manzorro expertly found the top right corner of the net on both occasions, leaving the opposition goalkeeper utterly helpless.
Daniel Chima Chukwu (Jamshedpur FC) vs Hyderabad FC
Daniel Chima Chukwu was one of the key reasons behind Jamshedpur FC's turnaround in the second half of the ISL 2023–24 season. The Nigerian forward scored a sensational hattrick against the Yellow and Back, demonstrating his offensive prowess and aerial supremacy, as the Red Miners thumped Hyderabad FC by a 5-0 result. Notably, with his hattrick, Chukwu became the second Jamshedpur FC player to score three goals in an ISL game.
Sachin Suresh (Kerala Blasters FC) vs East Bengal FC
Kerala Blasters FC's young goalkeeper Sachin Suresh delivered an outstanding performance by saving consecutive penalties, frustrating Cleiton Silva's efforts. The Kerala-born shot-stopper showcased exceptional anticipation, sharp instincts, and unwavering composure in high-pressure situations, which bolstered his confidence during crucial moments in the match against East Bengal FC.
Suresh initially denied Silva's penalty, although it was ordered to be retaken due to an infringement as the goalkeeper had moved off his line. Undeterred, Suresh made a significant impact by diving to his right to block Silva's second attempt, lifting his team's spirits significantly and leading them to a 2-1 win.
Tomi Juric (NorthEast United FC) vs East Bengal FC
Tomi Juric embarked on his ISL journey with a roaring brace in his debut game against East Bengal FC. The Australian forward opened his scoresheet with a simple tap-in in the opening minutes of the game while doubling his tally with a belter from the edge of the box. Moreover, he scored another brace in the very next match against Mohun Bagan SG, becoming the only player to hit two goals in each of his opening two starts.
Madih Talal (Punjab FC) vs East Bengal FC
Madih Talal played a pivotal role in Punjab FC's debut ISL season, showcasing his innate ability to orchestrate offensive moves and deliver defence-splitting passes. The French attacking midfielder once again displayed his efficiency and quality in Punjab FC's final match of the season, where they secured a convincing 4-1 victory over East Bengal FC.
Talal was instrumental in his team's success, contributing significantly with a goal and assists. He played a standout role, directly influencing the game by setting up Wilmar Jordan Gil and Luka Majcen for their goals in the second half. His performance underscored his impact as a key playmaker for Punjab FC throughout the season.