In football, the headlines mostly laud goalscorers and creative midfielders for their match-winning goals or jaw-dropping passes. The defensive stalwarts often go unnoticed, but their ability to thwart the opponent's attacking moves and clear the danger with effective clearance is paramount in any given condition of the game.

Defensive cohesion forms the bedrock of any successful campaign, and the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season also witnessed its defenders putting their bodies on the line, showcasing their grit and perseverance to maintain solidity and withstand pressure. Whether being on the last line of defense or cutting down opposing teams' quick countermoves, clearances hold paramount significance in football and epitomize the ultimate outcome of the match.

With that said, let's delve deep into statistics and figure out the best players who registered the highest number of clearances in the recently ended ISL season.

Stephen Eze (Jamshedpur FC): 131 clearances

Stephen Eze has been a rock at the back in Jamshedpur FC’s defense line. Eze’s commanding performances at the backline, aggressive tackles, timely interceptions, and crucial clearances in tense moments played a pivotal role in Jamshedpur FC’s road to the ISL playoffs. Besides recording the highest number of clearances, the Nigerian defender also won 118 duels and completed 96 recoveries, helping the team register five clean sheets.

Rahul Bheke (Bengaluru FC): 126 clearances

Rahul Bheke was a defensive powerhouse for Bengaluru FC this season. Bheke’s build-up play from the back, calm presence in the defense line, and goal-scoring threat from set-piece movements made him an integral part of the Blues’ setup this season. The veteran defender racked up a total of 126 clearances and also scored three goals, deploying a versatile role in his return to BFC.

Odei Onaindia (FC Goa): 118 clearances

Odei Onaindia was a key player in FC Goa’s defensive line. The Spanish center-back’s calm attitude and leadership attributes made him a valuable asset for the Gaurs as they became one of the team to beat in the 2024-25 season. The FCG captain has been sensational in link-up play, as he completed 806 successful passes with 84% passing accuracy in addition to his defensive attributes.

Alex Saji (Hyderabad FC): 114 clearances

Alex Saji has been a pillar in Hyderabad FC’s backline throughout the 2024-25 season. Despite HFC finishing in the bottom half of the season and conceding the highest of 47 goals, Saji was the bright spark with his clinical defending and fighting mentality. Saji won 75 duels, 20 tackles, and completed 52 recoveries along with attempting 114 clearances this campaign.

Asheer Akhtar (NorthEast United FC): 112 clearances

Asheer Akhtar comes last in this tally with over 100 clearances to his name. The seasoned defender enjoyed a remarkable season with NorthEast United FC under the guidance of Juan Pedro Benali. Akhtar scored a goal this season, registered five clean sheets with the Highlanders, won 67 duels, and completed 68 recoveries, playing a decisive role in NEUFC’s defensive organization.