Since the very beginning, the Indian Super League (ISL) has welcomed a host of African stars to Indian shores, many of whom quickly became fan favourites. And African footballers have been among the most influential figures in the league, consistently given fans moments to cherish.

But when it comes to picking the very best African players to have graced the ISL, it isn’t just about raw talent. We have taken into account the time these players spent in the league, the success they achieved with their teams and the long-lasting impact they had.

That means some notable African names who made brief but memorable appearances have been left out. The focus instead is on those who built a legacy and here’s a look at five players who have left a mark impossible to ignore.

1) Bartholomew Ogbeche

When it comes to African influence in the ISL, Bartholomew Ogbeche stands head and shoulders above the rest. The Nigerian striker is the all-time leading African goalscorer in the league with 63 goals and one of ISL’s all-time greats, period. Known for his deadly finishing, strength and uncanny knack of being in the right place at the right time, Ogbeche turned every club he played for into genuine contenders.

From his time at NorthEast United FC to Hyderabad FC, his goals carried teams deep into seasons, often lifting them. What made Ogbeche truly special was his consistency. Season after season, regardless of age, he delivered. By the time he left the league, he had already cemented his status as a living legend in the ISL having won the ISL Cup twice and the Shield once.

2) Ahmed Jahouh

If Ogbeche was about goals, Ahmed Jahouh has been about control. The Moroccan midfield maestro played 150 games, the most appearances by any African player in ISL history and it’s no surprise given how indispensable he’s been for every team he’s represented.

Having spent eight seasons in the league, Jahouh was the silent orchestrator who excelled at dictating tempo, recycling possession, and breaking up opposition attacks. His time at FC Goa saw him become a lynchpin in their free-flowing style, while at Mumbai City FC, his presence was key in their double-winning 2020-21 season. Coaches loved him because he brought balance; fans loved him because he never shied away from a duel. Jahouh wasn’t flashy but without him many ISL midfields would have looked lost. He remains one of the most decorated players in the league with three Shields and an ISL Cup to his name.

3) Mourtada Fall

Mourtada Fall has been another African stalwart who made consistency his trademark. The Senegalese centre-back is the second-most capped African in ISL history and arguably one of the finest defenders the league has ever seen. Standing tall, commanding in the air and calm under pressure, Fall was the definition of a defensive leader.

Fall wasn’t just known for his defensive solidity but also his ability to contribute at the other end. Time and again, he popped up with crucial goals from set pieces, making him a dual threat. At FC Goa and later at Mumbai City FC and Odisha FC, Fall became the heartbeat of the defence. For opposition attackers, getting past Fall was often the hardest task of the night. Like Jahouh, he won the Shield thrice and the ISL Cup once.

4) Daniel Chima Chukwu

Another African forward who has carved out his niche in the ISL is Daniel Chima Chukwu. The Nigerian striker brought with him a wealth of experience from Europe and immediately added value to the league with his work ethic and ability to adapt to different systems.

Chima might not have had the same prolific numbers as Ogbeche but his contributions went beyond goals. He was known for holding up play, bringing teammates into action and scoring when it mattered. His stints with East Bengal FC and Jamshedpur FC showcased his leadership qualities on the pitch and he played an important role in guiding the Men of Steel during their remarkable run to the Shield in 2021-22.

5) Noah Sadaoui

While some African players built their reputation over years in the ISL, Noah Sadaoui has quickly become one of the most exciting forwards in recent memory. The Moroccan attacker announced himself in style, finishing as FC Goa’s top scorer in back-to-back seasons in 2022-23 and 2023-24. Blessed with pace, skill and an eye for goal, Sadaoui’s flair made him a nightmare for defenders.

In 2024-25, he carried that form into Kerala Blasters FC, where he became their second-highest scorer of the season, proving his adaptability and match-winning abilities. KBFC fans already love him for his dazzling dribbles and ability to turn games on their head.

Notable mentions: Kalu Uche, Stephen Eze, Khassa Camara, Sameegh Doutie, Moudou Sougou.