ISL 2024-25: Top five Indian players from matchweek 26

A list featuring some of the best Indian performers featuring Irfan Yadwad and Lallianzualla Chhangte.

Following the conclusion of matchweek 26 of the Indian Super League (ISL), the 2024-25 regular season has officially ended. The final matchweek saw some standout performances from Indian players across various positions.

From rock-solid defenders to clinical finishers, domestic talents played a crucial role in their respective teams’ performances in the final matchweek.

Here, we look at the top five Indian players from the matchweek based on their standout performances:

5. Tondonba Singh (NorthEast United FC)

The NorthEast United FC full-back put in an exceptional performance during his side’s impressive 2-0 victory over East Bengal FC. Not only was he defensively sound, helping his side secure a clean sheet, but he also contributed in attack with a crucial assist.

The standout moment for the left-back came in the 60th minute when he delivered a teasing cross for Nestor Albiach to tap home and give the hosts a deserved 1-0 lead. Singh showed great work rate on the left flank, as he played a key role in both defense and attack for the Highlanders.

ALSO READ: TG Purushothaman and Kerala Blasters FC end ISL season with disappointment, set sights on Super Cup 2025

4. Ashique Kuruniyan (Mohun Bagan Super Giant)

The Mariners deployed the winger as a left-back against FC Goa, and was a defensive rock throughout the 90 minutes. His ability to use his attacking prowess to maraude and harass FC Goa defenders helped relieve pressure on his team. His effort and work rate helped the Mariners keep a clean sheet against one of the best attacking sides in the league in Manolo Marquez’s side.

Apart from his defensive contributions, Kuruniyan was also composed in possession, completing 21 accurate passes during the game. His consistent performances have made him an indispensable part of the Mohun Bagan squad and finds himself exploring his place in the starting eleven.

3. Mohammed Aimen (Kerala Blasters FC)

Kerala Blasters FC’s Mohammed Aimen played a crucial role in their attacking forays against Hyderabad FC during their fiercely contested 1-1 draw. His pace, vision, and creativity in the final third troubled the opposition defense, and he capped off his performance with a well-timed assist.

Aimen helped his side open the scoring in the 7th minute after a deep attacking corner did not translate to a clear cut opportunity. He kept the play alive by overhead kicking the ball back into a dangerous area, which allowed Dusan Lagator to open the scoring for Kerala. Aimen also managed two shots on goal, while constantly keeping the Hyderabad FC defense on their toes. In 10 appearances this season, the 22-year-old has contributed with three assists for his side.

2. Lallianzualla Chhangte (Mumbai City FC)

Chhangte once again proved why he is considered one of the best Indian forwards in the ISL this season. The Mumbai City FC winger scored the opening goal against Bengaluru FC, securing a crucial goal contribution in one of their biggest games of the season.

His finishing ability and intelligent movement in the attacking third were on display, as he converted his only shot of the game with clinical precision and great anticipation to open the scoring in the eighth minute. Chhangte’s consistent performances keep reinforcing his reputation as a match-winner. In 23 appearances this season, Chhangte had contributed with six goals and three assists for the Islanders.

1. Irfan Yadwad (Chennaiyin FC)

Emerging as one of the brightest young strikers in the ISL, Chennaiyin FC’s Irfan Yadwad showcased his goal-scoring prowess with a well-earned brace against Jamshedpur FC. His ability to find space in the opposition box and convert chances with precision while making runs in behind the last man was on full display.

Yadwad managed four shots in the match, two of which found the back of the net, proving to be the difference-maker for his team with some superb pieces of finishing. With such performances, the young forward is making a strong case for a starting berth in national team despite Sunil Chhetri’s return.

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.