The Hero Indian Super League (ISL) 2021-22 season kicked-off on a thrilling note as we witnessed some breathtaking action, quality goals and eye-catching individual performances.

ATK Mohun Bagan played like title contenders in their win against Kerala Blasters on the opening day. However, Khalid Jamil’s NorthEast United put up a tough fight but fell short against a robust Bengaluru FC side.

Jamshedpur FC couldn’t get past SC East Bengal as both sides were locked in a 1-1 stalemate. Meanwhile, Mumbai City FC romped a comfortable win over rivals FC Goa, and Chennaiyin FC made a winning start after a nail-biting victory against Hyderabad FC.

At the end of the first round of matches, here’s is Hero ISL Team of the Week consisting of the best performers in the opening round.

Formation: 3-4-3

Goalkeeper

Vishal Kaith (Chennaiyin FC) - 8.37

Vishal Kaith was a key figure for Chennaiyin FC against a relentless Hyderabad FC as he made three saves, two punches, and three high claims to keep a clean sheet in their 1-0 win over the Nizams.

Defender

Franjo Prce (SC East Bengal) - 7.16

The Croatian defender opened the scoring for his team with a brilliant overhead kick after an assist from his countryman Antonio Perosevic in the first quarter of the game. The centre-back was cool and composed at the back, making seven clearances and three interceptions.

Defender

Peter Hartley (Jamshedpur FC) - 7.44

The English defender didn’t hold back as he cancelled out Prce’s goal at stoppage time in the first half. Hartley won the most duels (10) in the match and was the leader of the pack, clearing seven aerial duels.

Defender

Narayan Das (Chennaiyin FC) - 6.98

The left-back was pivotal for the Marina Machans as he made the most tackles in the match. The defenders' efforts helped in keeping a cleansheet against Hyderabad FC who looked threatening in their openeing match.

Midfielder

Vladimir Koman (Chennaiyin FC) - 8.49

The midfield maestro was awarded the Hero of the Match as he scored the winning goal from the penalty spot for his team.

Midfielder

Adrian Luna (Kerala Blasters) - 8.29

The midfielder was one of Kerala Blasters’ best players against ATK Mohun Bagan as he created six chances and provided an assist. He was also the Tuskers’ most fouled player.

Midfielder

Sahal Samad (Kerala Blasters FC) - 7.47

Samad scored a beautiful goal after some lovely build-up play from Rahul KP to cancel out ATKMB’s early strike. He was lively throughout the game.

Midfielder

Alexandre Lima (Jamshedpur FC) - 7.49

The Brazilian midfielder heavily influenced his team as he completed the most passes in the match (50) and also had most touches (74).

Forward

Roy Krishna (ATK Mohun Bagan) - 8.28

The Fijian striker made two goal contributions and was a menacing player in the final third.

Forward

Igor Angulo (Mumbai City FC) - 9.05

Angulo bagged the Hero of the Match Award after his stunning performances against the Gaurs. The Spaniard striker scored 2 goals from 3 shots on target against his former team.

Forward

Hugo Boumous (ATK Mohun Bagan) - 9.18

Boumous surely lived up to his hype as he scored a terrific brace against KBFC, bagging the Hero of the Match Award. Boumous was phenomenal with his creativity too, creating three chances in the match.

 

ATK Mohun Bagan 4-2 Kerala Blasters FC

Bengaluru FC 4-2 NorthEast United FC

SC East Bengal 1-1 Jamshedpur FC

Mumbai City FC 3-0 FC Goa

Hyderabad FC 0-1 Chennaiyin FC