Top defenders of Hero ISL 2018-19 so far
A thorough analysis of the Hero Indian Super League (Hero ISL) 2018-19 table, as it stands now, perhaps vindicates to the popular footballing saying - 'a lethal attack wins you matches but a solid defence wins you leagues'.
A thorough analysis of the Hero Indian Super League (Hero ISL) 2018-19 table, as it stands now, perhaps vindicates to the popular footballing saying - 'a lethal attack wins you matches but a solid defence wins you leagues'. Despite scoring the most goals in the league, FC Goa find themselves seven points off the top spot, which in turn, is occupied by Bengaluru FC who boast the meanest defence in the season so far. Even second-placed Mumbai City FC’s rapid climb up the table can be attributed largely to their tight defence. Six goals in their final match against NorthEast United FC may have inflated the Islanders' goals for column, but it's the six clean sheets they kept which are responsible for their cushy position in the table.
Today, we turn the focus on some of the best defenders who have been masterful for their respective teams this season so far.
The 28-year-old right-back seems to be enjoying his football under Bengaluru head coach Carles Cuadrat this season and has played a key part in Bengaluru’s 11-match unbeaten run. Playing in all of the Blues' matches so far, Bheke has put his best foot forward and established himself as one of the best in the league. His effectiveness for the team is advertised by the 17 blocks, 13 interceptions and 62 clearances the Mumbai-born star has to his name this season. Bheke's effectiveness, however, isn't just limited to the defensive side of things. The adventurous right-back, known for his overlapping runs, has also pitched in with two goals and an assist this season, leading to the fans nicknaming him 'Bhekebauer'. He also boasts a very impressive 73.28% passing accuracy.
Whilst Bheke has arguably been the pick of the Bengaluru defenders, centre-back Albert Serran deserves just as much credit for commanding the Bengaluru backline with poise and class. Signed only in August to replace former Bengaluru fan-favourite John Johnson, the Spaniard had big shoes to fill but ended up exceeding expectations in spectacular fashion. The former Swansea player has played 10 matches so far at the heart of Cuadrat’s defence and has looked sublime in each of these outings. Serran's ability to read the game is impeccable and perfectly complements the physical style of his centre-back partner Juanan. His 9 blocks, 74 clearances and 21 tackles gives a fair idea of his defensive capabilities, but the Spaniard’s real strength is his positional awareness on the pitch – an attribute which cannot be quantified by numbers.
A 5-0 hammering at the Fatorda at the hands of FC Goa early in the season raised some serious question marks about the Mumbai City FC backline. However, since the disastrous loss, the Islanders have turned things around, largely thanks to an air-tight defence. Led by the enigmatic Lucian Goian, the Mumbai backline has kept a league-high six clean sheets this season, while conceding the second-lowest number of goals so far. The Romanian's leadership qualities and physical presence at the back have been crucial for Jorge Costa's men this season. Goian boasts some impressive numbers this season, with 112 clearances, 50 tackles and 22 blocks.
Having missed the start of the season due to an injury, the 33-year-old defender made an impactful return to help ATK get their stuttering season back on track. Joining the two-time Hero ISL champions just a few months ago, Bikey has already become a prominent voice in the ATK dressing room and is racking up some impressive numbers on the pitch. The Cameroonian has struck up a great partnership with John Johnson at the heart of ATK's defence and all four of ATK's clean sheets this season have come when the two started together. The former Burnley man is a colossal presence at the back while being assured on the ball, distributing passes with an accuracy of close to 80 %. His 28 clearances, 16 blocks and 12 interceptions are impressive returns for the 554 minutes of football he has played this season.
Subhasish Bose (Mumbai City FC)
Much like his teammate Goian, the 23-year-old India international began the season on a sluggish note with Jorge Costa’s tactics taking time to bear fruit. But once the team warmed up to the new system, Subhasish has been one of the cornerstones of the Islanders' impressive backline. Having played every minute of every match for Costa’s side so far this season, Bose has provided one assist, intercepted the play 15 times and cleared the ball 90 times. The Kolkata-born versatile defender also has 25 blocks and 46 tackles to his name.
