ISL 2023-24: Top five performers from Gameweek 4

The ISL returned to action after the International break.

Gameweek 4 saw the Indian top flight return back in action as the sheer drama and bliss of the Indian Super League (ISL 2023-24) reignited after the international break. 

The gameweek unfortunately witnessed only four games being played, due to the AFC Champions League and AFC Cup duties of certain teams.

The week began with a Saturday double-header, where initially FC Goa and East Bengal played their bout at the Kalinga, with the away team scraping a late win. High flying Kerala Blasters hosted NorthEast United later that day, where a resilient performance by the Highlanders saw them share points with the Yellow Army. 

Jamshedpur and Punjab played out a goalless draw on Sunday, whereas Chennaiyin managed to get their first win of the season after a solid performance against Hyderabad on Monday night. 

Despite the lack of fixtures, there was no lack in the quality and energy of the players, who yet again impressed the onlookers with their footballing prowess. 

So today, we take a look at the five top performers from ISL 2023-24 Gameweek 4. 

5. Ravi Kumar

Gameweek 4 saw Punjab FC pull off another upset, as they held a high flying Jamshepdur FC to a 0-0 draw at the Furnace. The Jamshedpur attack scrapped a number of chances throughout the game, but Punjab FC’s goalkeeper Ravi Kumar stood strong to every shot he faced. 

The 30-year-old made five saves, including some exceptional 1v1s as well. Ravi also made two successful run out saves, and was also sharp with his clearances. 

Such an incredible shift under the sticks, backed by the outcome of the game, makes Ravi Kumar a rightful inclusion in the list of the top five performers. 

4. Connor Shields

Connor led Chennaiyin by example, and helped the Marina Machans get their first goal and win of the new ISL season. The Scottish forward was lively throughout the game, and made a brilliant run to finish off a great ball by Ankit Mukherjee.

Shields not only helped in the attack, but was also sincere with his back-tracking, and was also lively in the midfield. 

3. Rei Tachikawa

Despite not being able to come up with any goal against Punjab, Rei left no stones unturned with his tireless performance for Jamshedpur. 

The youngster played an astounding six key passes, and played 12 accurate crosses and long balls.

Rei looked pretty confident with the ball at his feet, and was dangerous going forward. 

2. Nestor Albiach

Nestor pulled off an exceptional outing against Kerala, as he got his name on the scoresheet with some brilliant footwork and an even better finish. The Spaniard looked confident on the ball, and created tons of chances for the Highlanders. 

Nestor's dribbling was also on point, and he gave Kerala’s midfield a run for their money throughout the game. Also, the nine duels won by Nestor serves as a testament to his all round performance. 

1. Victor Rodriguez

Victor single handedly led his team to an astonishing comeback against the Red & Gold Brigade. The Spaniard assisted Goa’s equaliser with a brilliant set-piece, and gave them the lead via a clean finish off the left foot. 

Victor was a creative spark in Goa’s attack all night long, as he played three key passes, and also delivered six accurate crosses and long balls.