Matchday 1 of the 11th season of the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024/25 has officially ended. In the games, some exciting battles were seen in the six matches that have been played so far. Already 17 goals have been scored in six games, which is 2.83 goals per match. Only two teams Bengaluru FC (BFC) and NorthEast United FC (NEUFC) have been able to keep a clean sheet.
Wednesday has been an off day for the teams. Thursday Bengaluru will be hosting Hyderabad FC (HFC). Hyderabad after all the rumours and speculations have finally entered the ISL. All their bans have been lifted and they finally signed some new footballers along with some foreigners. HFC finished last in the 2023/24 season. This was due to their financial struggles and their investors also took off their hands from the team. They will be looking to start the season better this year.
BFC on the other hand has gained confidence after winning the first game of the season against East Bengal FC (EBFC). They kept a clean sheet with their local lad Vinith Venkatesh scored the only goal of the game. The former ISL champions will look to keep their momentum going in their forthcoming match. There will be some exciting battles at Sree Kanterava Stadium, Bengaluru on Thursday.
Here are the top 3 player battles to watch out for
3. Alex Saji vs Edgar Mendez
Saji has been one of the finest upcoming defenders in Indian football. The Kerala-born footballer was impressive last season. He got call-ups from big clubs like East Bengal and Mohun Bagan during the summer transfer window. However, Hyderabad was reluctant of not letting go their best man at the backline.
He will be seen on Thursday stopping Edgar Mendez of Bengaluru FC, who had an amazing game against EBFC. The Spanish striker will look to make a name on the score sheet and help his team win the match. However, the tussle against the likes of Saji will not be very easy and he will need to work very hard to get past him.
2. CY Goddard vs Pedro Capo
CY Goddard is known for his blistering pace down the wings. The Japanese is one of the most versatile footballers in the ISL. Goddard was a crucial part of the Mumbai City FC (MCFC) ISL Shield and Cup-winning side back in 2021. He joined Hyderabad FC for the new season and will look to make an impact in the first game for the side.
Pedro Capo will be on task to stop the 27-year-old winger who can also operate as an attacking midfielder. Capo was amazing last night in the midfield area alongside Suresh Wangjum. The Spaniard will look to stop the attacks from the middle and the wings for his side to play better football.
1. Sunil Chhetri vs Abdul Rabeeh
Sunil Chhetri is the biggest name in Indian football. The former Indian football team captain has hung up his boots from international football. Chhetri continues to play club football for Bengaluru FC. He has defied the age and continues to score goals. The BFC captain will look to open up his account on Thursday.
It will not be easy for Chhetri against the youngster Abdul Rabeeh, who has been exceptional since last year. The wing-back is known for his pace and good defensive ability in the side. Abdul will look to stop Chhetri from entering the box or create any dangerous attacks against his side.
