Indian Super League 2020-21: Five things we learned in Gameweek 3

The ongoing league has given the fans a lot of talking points to ponder over.

The Indian Super League (ISL) 2020-21 season is up and running and the third round of matches were played out recently. With teams finally finding their rhythm and players working on their fitness, the overall quality of football has vastly improved.

There were several important games played in the past gameweek, which gave the fans of the league a lot of points to discuss and observe. While ATKMB continued their winning streak, SC East Bengal’s start to life in the ISL did not go as planned with yet another defeat.

Moreover, there were three stalemates between the rest of the teams, which is evidence of the fact that the competition between clubs is very tight this term. Keeping all the factors in mind, here are the five important things that we learned from the third gameweek of ISL 2020-21:

5. Kerala Blasters will struggle to replace Sergio Cidoncha’s influence

Kerala Blasters were struck with a massively disappointing news, after it was revealed that their star midfielder Sergio Cidoncha will miss a large portion of the rest of the season with a serious ankle injury. The player got a knock in the match against Chennaiyin FC, which ended in a goalless draw.

ALSO READ: Kerala Blasters confirm Sergio Cidoncha ruled out for extended duration

KBFC have struggled to find the back of the net this term and losing the creative influence of their skipper will certainly add to their problems. It's most likely that the hierarchy will look elsewhere to find a replacement.

In the meanwhile, it will be interesting to see how Kibu Vicuna faces this challenge and shapes up the starting XI in games to come. 

4. FC Goa set for season of transition

It was always going to be tough for FC Goa to recuperate from the heavy loss of crucial players and an influential coach like Sergio Lobera. In the event, the Gaurs haven’t had an easy start to life post the large scale changes at the club.

FC Goa are winless in their first three games of the 2020-21 season, having drawn two and lost the other. These are unknown waters for the outfit and the fans who have been accustomed to seeing their club among the title contenders.

It is always tough for any club to go through a period of transition, which brings forth inconsistency and negative results. Judging by the early signs where Juan Ferrando’s men have struggled to find any rhythm, this could turn out to be a long season for the club.

3. Lack of depth in Indian contingent at heart of SC East Bengal’s struggles

New entrants SC East Bengal succumbed to their second defeat at the start of the league. They were dismantled by a confident Mumbai City FC, who slotted three goals without any reply, to earn as many points.

Despite their attempts to play fluid football, the Red and Gold Brigade have suffered from a lack of experience among their domestic players. Apart from Balwant Singh, there are hardly any top Indian players on the roster.

Jeje Lalpekhlua is still aiming to be match fit and played a cameo role against the Islanders. Any Indian Super League side that aims to succeed in the competition must have established domestic players and that is where EB are falling short. They should utilize the winter transfer window to reinforce their squad with notable Indian players to save their season.

2. Resilient Hyderabad FC in for a strong campaign

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XfvXv28X66c

Hyderabad FC maintained their unbeaten streak after drawing their match with Jamshedpur FC. After finishing at the bottom of the league standings last season, the Nizams have certainly turned the fortunes around in their favour.

Their resolute display and smooth football has caught the eye of fans. Due to a few missed opportunities, HFC could not secure three points against the Men of Steel, despite being the better team on the night. If Manolo Marquez's team perform with this consistentcy, then surely Hyderabad FC will finish strongly this season.

1. Manvir Singh could be ATKMB’s most important summer signing

Manvir Singh has always been on the periphery in the past seasons of the Indian Super League. However, this could be the season when the young striker finally takes strides towards fulfilling his potential. After spending three years at FC Goa, he was roped in by ATKMB ahead of the current campaign.

To pay back the trust the club have shown in the 25-year-old, he has performed beyond expectations. Manvir’s brilliant solo goal against SC East Bengal, which is a strong contender for Goal of the Season, just goes to show the extent of his ability.

Antonio Habas rewarded him with a starting place in the lineup against Odisha FC. If Manvir continues to keep himself in form and stays fit, then his signing could turn out to be the most important by ATKMB.