ISL Fantasy: Best differential picks for Matchweek 5
These players with less than 10 percent ownership could be key to boosting your ISL Fantasy points and helping you climb the leaderboard.

Matchweek 5 of the Indian Super League (ISL) is fast approaching as the league resumes after its first international break of the season. And it’s time to start planning our ISL Fantasy teams again!
Odisha FC won’t be in action this Matchweek, kicking off with NorthEast United FC taking on Chennaiyin FC in the opening match. Next up, unbeaten sides Bengaluru FC and Punjab FC will clash, followed by a rivalry renewal between FC Goa and Mumbai City FC at the Fatorda Stadium in Saturday's first double header.
The three Kolkata teams have crucial matches ahead, including the much-anticipated Kolkata Derby on Saturday, where East Bengal FC faces Mohun Bagan Super Giant for the first time this season. Meanwhile, Mohammedan Sporting Club will host Kerala Blasters FC on Sunday.
Jamshedpur FC will wrap up the matchweek with a home game against Hyderabad FC.
For managers who haven’t had the best start, there’s still time to add some differential players who could make a significant impact and help you climb the points ladder. With that in mind, here are a few players you should consider adding to your team.
Edgar Mendez - 5% ownership
Mendez has made an impact in three of the four matches he’s played for Bengaluru FC, yet he remains largely overlooked. With 20 points accumulated so far, he’s just two points shy of the more popular choice, Sunil Chhetri. This week, Mendez faces a Punjab FC side that has managed only one clean sheet this season, making it an excellent opportunity for him to continue his strong form.
Rei Tachikawa - 1% ownership
Tachikawa made an impressive debut in Jamshedpur FC’s fourth match against East Bengal FC, scoring in his first start of the season. The Japanese midfielder is a skilled playmaker, capable of both creating chances and finding the net. As he prepares to face a Hyderabad FC side still searching for their first win of the season, he could emerge as a strong option for the upcoming Matchweek.
Pratik Chaudhari - 1% ownership
Another Jamshedpur FC player with just one percent ownership, Chaudhari secured his first clean sheet of the season in Matchweek 4 during their victory over East Bengal FC. He’s set to face a winless Hyderabad FC at home, and as a key leader in defence, he’ll be eager to achieve another clean sheet, especially with Hyderabad still looking for their first goal of the season.
Yoell van Nieff - 5% ownership
Van Nieff faces a challenging fixture away against FC Goa, but his passing and defensive abilities could be crucial in helping him earn extra fantasy points as Mumbai City FC navigates this tough matchup. The Dutchman has already amassed 18 points over three games, which is a solid return for his price of Rs 7.1 CR, including a goal.
Jamie Maclaren - 9% ownership
Mohun Bagan SG’s summer signing Maclaren made an impressive mark in his first start of the season against Mohammedan Sporting Club, getting on the scoresheet.
Mohun Bagan SG face East Bengal FC in the Kolkata Derby this Matchweek, a fixture known for its high-scoring action. While it’s uncertain if Maclaren will lead the line again, he could be an bold option for your ISL Fantasy team, especially since East Bengal FC have struggled defensively, having lost all their matches so far.