ISL 2023-24: Top five performers from Gameweek 5

Some astounding individual performances rolled out across five fixtures in this past ISL gameweek.

Gameweek 5 of the Indian Super League (ISL 2023-24) saw five high end games of football that had action and drama written all over it. From late comebacks, goalless draws to five-goal hauls, Gameweek 5 had it all.

The week started off with Bengaluru FC and FC Goa playing a goalless draw at the Sree Kanteerava, followed by two incredible comebacks in the following two games, by NorthEast United and Kerala Blasters. Next up was a nervy game between Mumbai City and Hyderabad FC, where some late drama saw both teams share points. 

Chennaiyin registered another win with a thumping 5-1 victory over Punjab, to bring an end to another exciting week of ISL action. 

The gripping fixtures from this past week had individual brilliance and talent written all over it, with some players standing out from the flock, as a result of their impeccable shifts.

So today, we take a look at the top five performers from Gameweek 5 of the ISL 2023-24 edition.

5. Apuia

Having gone a man down inside seven minutes, Mumbai City were in for a pretty tough night at home against Hyderabad. The Islanders needed someone to step up in the time of such a crisis, and their 23-year-old midfielder Apuia stood up to the occasion, and delivered. 

Apuia kept his composure throughout the fixture, and helped Mumbai’s defence immensely. The former NorthEast United player won nine ground duels and also made three tackles.

With his crisp and composed passing, and intricate movements, Apuia was unpredictable with his moves, and dominated the midfield despite the numerical disadvantage.

4. Gurpreet Singh Sandhu

Bengaluru FC held back a high-flying FC Goa in the opening match of gameweek five, with their goalkeeper in chief - Gurpreet Singh Sandhu turning up to the occasion big time. 

The India international made a total of seven brilliant saves, including some astonishing full stretch ones, to deny every attempt made by the Gaurs. 

Not only that, Gurpeet’s distribution was also on point, as the custodian launched some stunning balls to put his team on the counter.

3. Michel Zabaco

Michel Zabaco features on the list yet again, after another resounding performance on both ends of the field.

The Spaniard was sensational at the back against Jamshedpur, and kept their deadly attack pretty quiet throughout the 90 minutes. The Men of Steel weren’t able to create any decent chance due to the constant pressure created by Zabaco at the back. 

Also, Michel’s scrappy goal in the 94th minute of the game, levelled the score for the Highlanders, and inspired them into getting the winner just minutes later.

2. Adrian Luna

Adrian Luna has become a household name in the list of the top performers, due to his consistent performances in every game he plays for Kerala Blasters.

The Uruguayan gave Ivan the perfect gift on his homecoming, as he scored an absolutely mesmerising chip from the edge of the box to hand the Blasters the lead.

Keeping that aside, Luna also created tons of opportunities, and had four key passes to his name. 

1. Connor Shields

Chennaiyin’s Scottish forward Connor Shields seems to be picking pace at his new club, as he pulled off another brilliant performance in Gameweek 5. 

Shields scored a fantastic brace in Channiyin’s 5-1 victory over Punjab. His first goal was a pure striker’s finish, after a great square off from the left flank. The second was a belter that was placed brilliantly at the top left corner. 

The 26-year-old was also involved heavily in all of Chennaiyin’s build-up work, and marked his presence in every attacking play.