Indian Football Team Player Watch: Bheke, Vikram, Liston impress; Manvir, Suresh can do better

A few players impressed in the recently concluded ISL gameweek while some still need to tighten their socks!

The Indian football team was comprised of 26 members who represented the nation at the 2023 AFC Asian Cup. Leaving behind India’s underwhelming performance at the tournament, it is now time to focus on the upcoming challenges that the team will face.

With the upcoming World Cup Qualifiers scheduled for next month, there will be significant scrutiny on the performances of the 26 players, and their contributions for their clubs will play a pivotal role in determining their participation in the upcoming games.

In this article, we have a look at the performances of the 26 players in the Gameweek 15 of ISL 2023-24. 

Vishal Kaith – 7.5

In the past week of play, Vishal’s performance was subdued. Although he kept a clean-sheet in Mohun Bagan’s victory against FC Goa, he conceded two goals in the match against NorthEast United FC.

Akash Mishra – 7.5

The left-back played a pivotal role in Mumbai City FC’s success, contributing to two victories against East Bengal FC and Bengaluru FC without conceding any goals.

Rahul Bheke – 7.5

Rahul contributed significantly to Mumbai City FC’s success last week by securing clean-sheet victories in both matches. With commendable pass accuracy and timely clearances, he effectively thwarted the opponents’ attempts, limiting their opportunities to create scoring chances.

Liston Colaco – 7.5

Although Liston took the field as a substitute in Mohun Bagan’s match against FC Goa, he was at his best in the match against NEUFC where he also scored a goal to help his team bounce back. 

Lallianzuala Chhangte – 7.5

Chhangte has played a pivotal role in the last two victories of Mumbai City FC. He also contributed an assist in the game against Bengaluru FC. His persistent effort on the field led to the creation of numerous scoring opportunities.

Vikram Partap Singh – 7.5

Although Vikram did not have an anticipated outing in the first match last week, his performance for Mumbai in the victory against Bengaluru was crucial. He scored two goals in the fixture.

Subhasish Bose – 7

Subhasish’s performance reached its peak in the last two matches against FC Goa and NorthEast United FC, both of which were victories for his team. He appeared predominantly menacing while defending the opponents’ attacks during the match against NEUFC.

Lalengmawia Ralte – 7

Although Apuia’s performance in the match against East Bengal FC was outstanding, he struggled against Bengaluru FC. However, his contribution to the team’s victories in both matches was pivotal.

Sahal Abdul Samad – 7

Since his return from injury, Sahal is gradually regaining fitness and making significant contributions during critical stages of the matches. He participated in both of Mohun Bagan’s matches last week and notably scored a goal against NEUFC.

Nikhil Poojary –  6.5

Although Nikhil performed well in Bengaluru’s match in the last gameweek, he was unable to help his team secure a victory. Unfortunately, they suffered a 2-0 defeat to Mumbai City FC.

Manvir Singh – 6.5

Mohun Bagan emerged victorious in their last two matches, and Manvir performed commendably. His performance appeared slightly lacking in the first match, but he showed improvement in his contribution to the team’s attacking play in the second.

Sunil Chhetri – 6.5

With Bengaluru FC facing challenges in this season, Sunil Chhetri’s performance has emerged as a significant area of concern for the team. While he managed to register one shot on target in their recent match, his form will be pivotal for both the club and the national team in the upcoming period.

Rahul KP – 6

Rahul’s performance in the last two games for Kerala Blasters FC was below standards. His involvement in the first match appeared minimal, and he was substituted after just 25 minutes in the second one.  

Brandon Fernandes –  6

Brandon’s FC Goa played a single match last week, which they lost 1-0. Despite his notable performance on the field, Brandon was unable to assist his team in securing an equalizer against Mohun Bagan.

Naorem Mahesh Singh –  6

Naorem recently participated in the game against Mumbai City FC, a fixture which East Bengal FC lost. During this match, Naorem received a yellow card and did not perform at his peak.

Gurpreet Singh Sandhu – 5.5

Despite Gurpreet exhibiting minimal saves during the Mumbai City FC game, his efforts were not enough to secure a victory or a draw for his team.

Lalchungnunga – 5.5

Lalchungnunga played only one match last week, facing Mumbai City FC, which resulted in a 1-0 defeat for his side. Notably, he was not included in the starting line-up and was in fact brought on in the second half.

Suresh Singh Wangjam –  6.5

Suresh’s performance against Mumbai was below standard. He frequently lost possession during the match. One positive – he maintained a high passing accuracy.

Pritam Kotal – N/A

Anirudh Thapa – N/A

Deepak Tangri – N/A

Udanta Singh – N/A

Ishan Pandita – N/A

Mehtab Singh – N/A

Amrinder Singh –  N/A

Sandesh Jhingan – N/A  

For more updates, follow Khel Now on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.