Sunday’s encounter between Bengaluru FC and Mumbai City FC was monumental for more reasons than one. The Islanders produced an outstanding performance and extended their unbeaten run on the road to a club-record six matches in Hero Indian Super League (Hero ISL). The painful loss, meanwhile, not only ended Bengaluru’s unbeaten start to the season, but it was also their first defeat at home in 19 matches.

While those stats are quite tremendous and outline both teams’ potential, the fixture witnessed another landmark that was broken during the 90 minutes. Mato Grgic’s unfortunate own goal 10 minutes into the second half might not have affected the end result that much, but in the larger scheme of things, the goal was quite important and was Hero ISL 2019-20’s 100th strike.

The milestone was reached in the 39th match of the season – the joint-third quickest in the history of the competition. Delving further, here are a few more interesting numbers.

1. Spain emerges as the second highest goal scoring nationality

Besides home grown players, Spanish stars have always been up there in terms of their contribution in attack for Hero ISL clubs. This season has been no different, with Spanish players scoring 26 of the 100 goals – just three less of what their Indian counterparts have managed. Sergio Castel and Ferran Corominas have been the biggest contributors, finding the back of the net on five and four occasions, respectively. Odisha FC pair, Xisco Hernandez and Aridane Santana are the next in line with four goals each to their name.

2. Jerry Mawihmingthanga and Santana the best duo

Before the start of the season, most people would have gone for a pair either from ATK, FC Goa or Bengaluru as their favourite in this regard. However, Odisha FC’s Jerry and Santana have instead, proven to be quite an outstanding duo with Jerry assisting Santana for three of his four goals so far in Hero ISL 2019-20. Two of those strikes came in a 4-2 win over Mumbai City FC, wherein the understanding between the two players was evident for all to see.

3. Set-pieces prove to be lethal

Hero ISL 2019-20 has been one of the most competitive seasons so far with teams finding it difficult to get past their opponents and only fine margins separating two sides. Set-pieces, therefore, have been of tremendous use and have accounted for 35 of the 100 goals. Bengaluru FC have arguably benefited the most from it, with head coach Carles Cuadrat even admitting the countless minutes his side spend on perfecting them in training.