Mohun Bagan SG vs Bengaluru FC Highlights: Liston Colaco's world-class goal helps Mohun Bagan beat Bengaluru by 1-0 in Kolkata
Catch the highlights of the Mohun Bagan SF vs Bengaluru FC match in ISL 2024-25 as Liston Colaco's stunning goal helped Mohun Bagan win by 1-0 in Kolkata.
Hello and welcome to Sportz Point's LIVE coverage of Mohun Bagan SG vs Bengaluru FC in Indian Super League 2024-25.
This is Koushik Biswas, who will bring you all the LIVE updates and News of the match from the web desk.
This fixture has always given the fans great thrill, excitement and top-class football.
Mohun Bagan, the defending ISL Shield Champions and the current table topper will go against Sunil Chhetri's Bengaluru FC, who are currently at number three on the points table.
Sit back and relax as we bring you the updates of the match. Do not forget to join our WhatsApp and Telegram Channels for the latest updates too.
LIVE Updates
Jan 27, 2025, 4:13 PM
Jan 27, 2025, 4:06 PM
"Proud of my team:" Gerard Zaragoza
It has a been a fatal January month. I am proud of this team. They did everything. We won something today. We are getting ready for the knockouts for sure. We did not have many players to change," Gerard Zaragoza said in post-match presentation.
Jan 27, 2025, 3:58 PM
Kaith moves in step closer
Jan 27, 2025, 3:57 PM
Full time | MBSG 1-0 BFC
The final effort from Sunil Chhetri was blocked by the Green and Maroon wall.
Mohun Bagan stay at the top of the table. Bengaluru FC had the chance, but they have only themselves to blame.
Apuia wins the player of the match but it was Liston Colaco's worldie which helps them win the full point in Kolkata.
Jan 27, 2025, 3:53 PM
90+5' | Dimi with a shot
Dimi Petratos took a chance with a left-footed shot from the left of the box. It went right of the goal though.
Jan 27, 2025, 3:52 PM
90+3' | Chance for Bheke
Bheke's flying header goes over the goal. Chance went begging for them from the corner.
Jan 27, 2025, 3:51 PM
90+2' | Good from Bose
He had to be accurate there.
It was inside the box and he tackled Williams.
Jan 27, 2025, 3:49 PM
90+1' | Change for Mohun Bagan
Petratos replaces MacLaren.
Jan 27, 2025, 3:48 PM
90' | 5 minutes added
5 minutes have been added as injury time.
Jan 27, 2025, 3:46 PM
Stats for you!
Liston Colaco has scored in 17 ISL games for Mohun Bagan SG.
They have not lost in any of those games.
Jan 27, 2025, 3:45 PM
87' | Chhetri looks for Williams
Chhetri looks for Williams from outside the box with a popped up ball.
But it is too long for him.
Jan 27, 2025, 3:42 PM
83' | Easy for Kaith
Easy grab for Kaith as Mendez tried to whip in a cross from the right to cause issue.
Jan 27, 2025, 3:37 PM
78' | Changes for Mohun Bagan
Liston and Greg, the goal scorer and assist provider have been replaced by Jason Cummings and Ashique Kuruniyan.
Jan 27, 2025, 3:36 PM
75' | WORLDIE FROM LISTON COLACO | MBSG 1-0 BFC
WORRRRLLLLLLDDDDDDD CLASSSSSSS!
This man has the whole Kolkata on their feet.
Bose with the cross and Greg's shot was partially negotiated by Bheke.
The clarence went straight to Liston, who volleyed the ball straight into the goal from 20 yards away.
World Class!
Mohun Bagan 1-0 Bengaluru FC
Jan 27, 2025, 3:31 PM
73' | Cummings to come?
The Aussie striker was seen taking some pointers on the byline. Surely a few changes coming.
Jan 27, 2025, 3:30 PM
72' | Poojary with a great cross
Nikhil Poojary did well to first keep the ball in play and then send a cross for Sunil to head the ball.
However, Dippendu had marked down Sunil to clear out the ball.
Jan 27, 2025, 3:26 PM
67' | Chance for Greg
Brilliant football from Mohun Bagan.
Long ball from Kaith and Liston Colaco had beaten Nikhil Poojary to find McLaren at the top of the box.
However, the Australian chose to give it to Greg Stewart, who slipped on the ground while taking the shot.
Jan 27, 2025, 3:24 PM
66' | Sana with a good block
Liston Colaco from the middle of the box, had a clear view of the goal.
But, Sana came in between to make the block.
Jan 27, 2025, 3:22 PM
62' | A lot of action inside the box
Greg's corner fell on to the feet of Liston at the far post, whose lobbed ball was not grabbed clearly by Gurpreet.
This led but a few shots inside the box. But, at last, it was safe for BFC.
Jan 27, 2025, 3:20 PM
62' | Corner for Mohun Bagan
Manvir's cross from right was closed down by Roshan. Corner for Mohun Bagan. Greg to take it
Jan 27, 2025, 3:20 PM
Who will score first?
Jan 27, 2025, 3:16 PM
57' | Save from Kaith
Another save from Kaith. This time it was Capo, who made an entry inside the box and went for a shot with his right-foot.
But, easy for last year's Golden Glove winner.
Jan 27, 2025, 3:15 PM
56' | Save from Kaith
Mendez's looping header was deflected away for a corner by Kaith.
Nikhil with the popped up ball for Mendez to go for the header.
Jan 27, 2025, 3:13 PM
54' | Two consecutive corners for BFC now
Following a free-kick, which was deflected for a corner by Apuia, BFC have won another corner.
But, they could not take advantage of that.
Jan 27, 2025, 3:09 PM
51' | Brawl in the middle
This has been the case whenever the ref. has given a foul.
Apuia fouled Mendez and Bengaluru FC players went at the referee demanding a card.
Jan 27, 2025, 3:09 PM
49' | Three back-to-back corners for Mohun Bagan
Mohun Bagan are back at their best with a hat-trick of corners.
Tangri's header was deflected by Gurpreet but in rest of the two corners, Mohun Bagan could not do that much.
Jan 27, 2025, 3:07 PM
48' | Top class from Bheke
Excellent from Bheke to come between the cross from Manvir and McLaren. He deflects the ball for a corner.
Jan 27, 2025, 3:04 PM
46' | Second half starts
No changes from either teams.
Jan 27, 2025, 3:03 PM
HISTORY
🚨𝐇𝐈𝐒𝐓𝐎𝐑𝐘 | You are witnessing World's Largest Hand-Painted tifo.
Mohun Bagan XI: V. Kaith, D. Biswas, T. Aldred, A. Rodríguez, S. Bose, D. Tangri, Apuia, L. Colaco, G. Stewart, M. Singh, Jamie MacLaren
Subs: Dheeraj Singh, Arsh Anwer Shaikh, Saurabh Bhanwala, Abhishek Suryavanshi, Ashique Kuruniyan, Sahal Abdul Samad, Jason Cummings, Suhail Ahmed Bhatt, Dimitri Petratos
Jan 27, 2025, 10:22 AM
Bengaluru FC Recent Form
22/01/25
Bengaluru FC 2-3 Odisha FC
Result: Loss
18/01/25
Hyderabad FC 1-1 Bengaluru FC
Result: Draw
11/01/25
Bengaluru FC 0-1 Mohammedan SC
Result: Loss
04/01/25
Jamshedpur FC 2-1 Bengaluru FC
Result: Loss
28/12/24
Chennaiyin FC 2-4 Bengaluru FC
Result: Win
Summary:
Last 5 Matches: W-L-L-D-L
Bengaluru FC is struggling with form, managing only one win in their last five matches. They need to address their defensive vulnerabilities as they've conceded 9 goals in this period.
Jan 27, 2025, 10:18 AM
Mohun Bagan Super Giant Recent Form
21/01/25
Chennaiyin FC 0-0 Mohun Bagan Super Giant
Result: Draw
17/01/25
Jamshedpur FC 1-1 Mohun Bagan Super Giant
Result: Draw
11/01/25
Mohun Bagan Super Giant 1-0 East Bengal FC
Result: Win
02/01/25
Mohun Bagan Super Giant 3-0 Hyderabad FC
Result: Win
26/12/24
Punjab FC 1-3 Mohun Bagan Super Giant
Result: Win
Summary:
Last 5 Matches: W-W-D-D-D
Mohun Bagan remains unbeaten in their recent fixtures, showing solid form with two big wins and three draws.
Jan 27, 2025, 10:15 AM
Head-to-head in ISL | MBSG vs BFC
Date
Home Team
Away Team
Home Score
Away Score
28/09/24
Bengaluru FC
Mohun Bagan Super Giant
3
0
11/04/24
Bengaluru FC
Mohun Bagan Super Giant
0
4
27/09/23
Mohun Bagan Super Giant
Bengaluru FC
1
0
18/03/23
Mohun Bagan Super Giant
Bengaluru FC
2 (4)
2 (3)
05/02/23
Mohun Bagan Super Giant
Bengaluru FC
1
2
03/12/22
Bengaluru FC
Mohun Bagan Super Giant
0
1
27/02/22
Mohun Bagan Super Giant
Bengaluru FC
2
0
15/01/22
Mohun Bagan Super Giant
Bengaluru FC
—
—
16/12/21
Bengaluru FC
Mohun Bagan Super Giant
3
3
09/02/21
Bengaluru FC
Mohun Bagan Super Giant
0
2
21/12/20
Mohun Bagan Super Giant
Bengaluru FC
1
0
Jan 27, 2025, 10:11 AM
Tonight's Venue | VYBK, Kolkata
Jan 27, 2025, 10:09 AM
How to watch the match?
Indian football fans can watch the Mohun Bagan SG vs Bengaluru FC match LIVE on Sports18 TV Channels. Moreover, they can also stream the match LIVE on Jio Cinema App and Website for free as well.
Discover the most promising U-21 footballers in India who are set to define the future of Indian football. Know about their current status and journeys.
The dynamic landscape of Indian football is on the cusp of a new era and set to be carried forward by a generation of young talent. Finding the most promising U-21 footballers in India is the key, as they are the ones who will decide where we stand next.
Let's take a look at some special youngsters who are not only catching the eye of coaches, but are also inspiring the youth with their skill, dedication and ambition.
Suhail Ahmad Bhat (20 years)
Suhail Ahmad Bhat practicing with the Blue Tigers. Image | Facebook
Born: 8 April 2005, Jammu and Kashmir
Position: Centre-Forward
Current team: Mohun Bagan SG
Suhail Ahmad Bhat is a 20-year-old promising young talent, who has quickly become a name to watch in Indian football. He made his mark with the Indian Arrows, and his progress led him to Mohun Bagan Super Giant.
He has consistently proved his ability to find the net and did well across various competitions like the Durand Cup, CFL, and Super Cup. His journey began with early recognition, even being featured by The Guardian as one of the best young talents globally born in 2005.
Suhail already represented India in U-16 (where he scored on his debut match) and U-23 level. He also recently got called up for the senior India national team and debuted in 2025.
Joseph Sunny captured between practice sessions for Hyderabad FC. Image | X
Born: 13 October 2003, Kerala
Position: Forward
Current team: Hyderabad FC
Joseph Sunny is a tall attacking striker who has emerged as a key player for Hyderabad FC. His strength lies in his style of play, which turns out to be really impactful for the team. He played in tournaments like the Kalinga Super Cup and I-League and made his ISL debut in the 2023-24 season.
Sunny has made his deserving spot in the playing XI for Hyderabad, featuring in most of their matches. His ISL performances highlighted his eagerness to contribute to the team and also his rising stature.
Korou Singh Thingujam (18 years)
Korou Singh Thingujam playing for Kerala Blasters in ISL. Image | Instagram
Born: 3 December 2006, Manipur
Position: Second Striker, Right Winger
Current Team: Kerala Blasters FC
Korou Singh Thingujam has rapidly risen through the ranks at Kerala Blasters FC, showcasing exceptional skill as a second striker. He initially made an impact by scoring on his debut with the reserve team, and then quickly earned his spot in the senior team.
His ISL debut in 2024 made him one of the youngest players to do so. He also got an extension of contract for Kerala Blasters till 2029, which highlights the team's faith in his abilities.
Korou was a part of the Indian U-17 team that won the 2022 SAFF U-17 Championship, and even scored in the final. He also got to play for the U-20 side in 2024, scoring 1 goal in 5 appearances.
Mohammed Sanan (21 years)
Mohammed Sanan playing for Jamshedpur FC in ISL. Image | Instagram
Born: 5 April 2004, Kerala
Position: Left Winger
Current Team: Jamshedpur FC
Mohammed Sanan is a talented young left-winger, who emerged from the Reliance Foundation Young Champs' (RFYC) academy. His strong foundation saw him get a long-term deal with Jamshedpur FC.
Sanan quickly made his way to the senior team, starting with the Durand Cup and later making it to the ISL. He is the most reliable young performer in the team, who also appeared in two games for the India U-23 team in his international career.
Bikash Yumnam is a 21-year-old solid centre-back who has established himself as a decent defensive presence. He has gained experience playing for clubs like Chennaiyin FC and Punjab FC, before joining Kerala Blasters FC.
He seems to constantly develop his game, along with focusing on positioning, tackling, and aerial abilities.
Bikash was a part of the 2022 SAFF U-20 Championship winning squad of India and was also a part of the U-16 team that reached the quarterfinals of the 2018AFC U-18 Championship in Malaysia.
Tekcham Abhishek Singh (20 years)
Tekcham Abhishek Singh playing for Punjab FC. Image | Transfermarkt
Born: 2 January 2005, Manipur
Position: Left back
Current team: Punjab FC
Tekcham Abhishek Singh is a highly praised left-back, known for his defensive solidity and energetic run. His journey began at Minerva Academy, from where he moved to Punjab FC and became a crucial part of the team.
Abhishek's impressive ISL performance led to a tug-of-war between major Kolkata clubs for his signature, ultimately leading his move to Mohun Bagan SG. He will soon be joining their side and will continue to play brilliant football.
After playing for the U-20 and U-23 Indian teams, he got a call-up to the senior national team under coach Manolo Marquez. He has already made his debut with the team and has a long way to go.
Nikhil Barla (21 years)
Nikhil Barla in ISL. Image | X
Born: 5 August 2003, Jharkhand
Position: Right Back
Current team: Jamshedpur FC
Nikhil Barla is a 21-year-old emerging talent who trained at the prestigious TATA Football Academy. He began his journey with Jamshedpur FC's youth and reserve teams, where he worked tremendously hard to transition into the senior squad.
Barla quickly became an integral part of their defence and gained significant experience playing in the ISL. This hardworking boy is steadily climbing towards his dream with immense discipline and dedication.
His consistent performance earned him a place in India's U-23 probable squad, and there's more to come!
Vinith Venkatesh celebrates a goal for Bengaluru FC. Image | NDTV Sports
Born: 31 July 2005, Bengaluru
Position: Midfielder
Current team: Bengaluru FC
Vinith Venkatesh made his senior debut in the 2024 Durand Cup for Bengaluru FC, where he also scored against Mohun Bagan SG in the semi-finals. He made his ISL debut in the same year, potentially growing his skills while playing alongside experienced footballers.
Bengaluru FC is a club known for youth development, and the inclusion of a talented youngster like Vinith makes the vision for the future even brighter. As a midfielder, he contributes to ball distribution, tackling, and both offensive and defensive transitions.
Sahil Poonia (19 years)
Sahil Poonia in his debut ISL match for Bengaluru FC. Image | Instagram
Born: 8 March 2006, Haryana
Position: Goalkeeper
Current team: Bengaluru FC
Sahil Poonia is another 19-year-old young talent who represents Bengaluru FC as a goalkeeper. He hails from Haryana and has worked really hard to come his far and keep up with the dynamic football world.
Poonia has already featured for India at various youth levels, including U-17, U-20, and U-23 teams, which is a strong indicator of his potential as a future national team goalkeeper.
Singamayum Shami (18 years)
Singamayum Shami in ISL. Image | Cricketnmore
Born: 18 April 2007, Manipur
Position: Midfielder
Current team: Punjab FC
Singamayum Shami is a highly exciting attacking midfielder for Punjab FC. He swiftly made his mark in his flourishing career and became the youngest goalscorer in the history of ISL (at 17 years) in 2025.
Shami had an exceptional ability to handle pressure and even score at those times. He was a part of the India U-20 team that won the SAFF U-20 Championship in 2025. Not only was he a key part of the team, but also earned the mostvaluable player award of the tournament.
Gurnaj Singh Grewal representing East Bengal. Image | X
Born: 9 January 2007, Punjab
Position: Midfielder
Current team: East Bengal FC
Gurnaj Singh Grewal is a promising midfielder who has been a part of the youth setup at East Bengal FC. He has an amazing ability to control the tempo of the game and initiate offensive plays.
He has contributed to East Bengal's reserve squad, contributing to their success, including winning the Calcutta Football League 2024-25. Internationally, he represented India at the U-17 and U-19 levels and was a part of the SAFF U-19 Championship-winning squad.
There have been several players who led the Indian football team to reach the stage where it is right now. Let’s have a look at top 10 Indian football captains of all time.
Indian football is currently in its growing stage and has gained immense popularity in the last few years. The Indian football team is yet to achieve many big milestones on international level, which are anticipated to get achieved in the upcoming years. With the rise of Indian football over the years, there have been several players who led the Indian football team to reach the stage where it is right now.
Let’s have a look at top 10 Indian football captains of all time.
Top 10 Indian Football Captains
10. Talimeren Ao
Tenure: 1948
The very first captain of independent India, Talimeren Ao led the national side in it's first ever game at the Olympics in 1948.
He played only six times for India, but his name will be long remembered for being the very first captain of the new nation.
Hailing from Nagaland, Ao was a centre-back as well as a qualified physician. There are two stadiums in Assam named after him.
9. Prasun Banerjee
Tenure: 1980
The younger brother of PK Banerjee, Prasun played for India between 1974-1985 and captained the team five times in international tournaments.
He was a defensive midfielder in his playing days, but is currently an MP from Howrah in the Lok Sabha.
8. Mohammed Habib
Tenure: 1965-1975
Represented and captained the side between 1965-1975. Habib was a household name amongst football fans in the country back then with PK Banerjee once calling him 'the Indian Pele'.
7. Gurpreet Singh Sandhu
Tenure: Occasional captain
The giant goalie is another who has in recent years been handed the armband by coach Constantine. He led the side out against Puerto Rico in 2016.
6. Jarnail Singh
Tenure: 1965–67
Captained the Indian Football team between 1965-1967. Jarnail Singh was another in the long list of centre-backs to have captained the side.
He was notably named in the Asian All Star team of 1966.
5. Sailen Manna
Tenure: 1949–54
Considered one of the best defenders to pull on the India blue, Manna played 14 times for India between 1948-1956. He captained the side to gold at the Asian Games in 1951.
The English FA back in 1953 rated him amongst the 10 best captains in the world in it's annual yearbook.
4. Chuni Goswami
Tenure: 1960–64
He was one of those multi-sport figures having played international football for India as a striker as well as first-class cricket for the Bengal Ranji Trophy team. He earned 50 caps for India between 1956-1964.
He was captain when India won gold at the Asian Games in 1962 and silver at the Asia Cup two years later.
3. PK Banerjee
Tenure: 1960–61
Made 84 appearances for India and is one of the most distinguished Indian footballers of all time. He scored 65 times for the side after making his debut in 1955. He captained the side at the 1960 Olympics.
2. Bhaichung Bhutia
Tenure: 2000-11
The man who really popularized the game of football in the nineties and noughties, the Sikkimese Sniper Bhaichung Bhutia first became captain in 2000-2011.
The legendary striker who played for over 16 years for the team was captain on numerous occasions including the successful SAFF Championship run in 2005.
1. Sunil Chhetri
Tenure: 2012–24
The current record goalscorer for the national side, Sunil Chhetri has made the armband his since 2012. It started with the AFC Challenge Cup back then and it has been his to lose ever since.
With over 150 caps and 95 goals to his name and many other honours, Chhetri will go down as one of the most successful captains of all time when he hangs up his boots.
Chhetri captained India to a record-extending ninth SAFF Championship title. Not only did he finish as that edition’s top scorer with five goals, he became the joint-highest goalscorer in SAFF championship history with 23 goals, along with Maldives’ Ali Ashfaq.
Indian football continues to grow, and the stadiums where the game is played are a key part of its story. The nation has a collection of incredible stadiums that have a history of holding the most high-stakes and celebrated matches.
The capacity of a football stadium directly impacts the overall experience. The larger a stadium, the more fans it can hold, and the bigger the atmosphere for a match. Therefore, this article notes down the best Indian football stadiums ranked by capacity.
1. Salt Lake Stadium (VYBK), West Bengal
Salt Lake Stadium, West Bengal. Image | News9live
Capacity: 85,000
Built in: 1984
The Salt Lake Stadium, officially known as Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan, is the largest Indian football stadium with a seating capacity of 85,000. Located at the heart of Kolkata, a city that breathes football, in West Bengal, it is simply an electrifying hub for the game.
Originally built in 1984, this stadium has undergone multiple renovations, including a major one for the FIFA Under-17 World Cup, 2017. The stadium saw legendary moments, like when Lionel Messi played here in 2011, or when Diego Maradona visited in 2008, drawing massive crowds.
This stadium is the most reliable venue for hosting major football matches that are played in India, which shows that it is fit for big international events.
Additionally, the famous Kolkata Derby (East Bengal vs. Mohun Bagan) regularly fills the stadium, creating an unforgettable experience for players and fans.
Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Delhi. Image | Wikipedia
Capacity: 60,254
Built in: 1982
Delhi's Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium is the second-largest Indian football stadium with a capacity of 60,254. It was originally built to host the events of 1982 Asian Games, and also hosted the 1989 Asian Championships in Athletics.
The stadium went through a modernised renovation for the 2010 Commonwealth Games, and hosted all the track and field events. Because it's in the nation's capital, it often hosts international friendly matches and national football tournaments.
It is a well-equipped grand venue that offers a big stage for players and a comfortable experience for the spectators.
3. Greenfield International Stadium, Kerala
Greenfield International Stadium, Kerala. Image | TOI
Capacity: 50,000
Built in: 2015
The Greenfield International Stadium in Kerala, also known as "The Sports Hub, Trivandrum," can hold 50,000 spectators, which is the 3rd highest in India. It is relatively new and built as a multi-purpose stadium, having top-notch facilities.
The stadium hosted its first international football tournament in 2015 (SAFF Championship). It is mostly known for hosting cricket matches, making it the home ground for the Kerala Cricket Association.
EMS Stadium, Kozhikode, Kerala. Image | The Bridge
Capacity: 50,000
Built in: 1977
The EMS Stadium in Kozhikode, Kerala, is another multi-purpose stadium that has a capacity of 50,000. It is a very old and precious football venue of the state, famous for its deep connection with local football and drawing of enthusiastic fans.
It is home to the I-League club Gokulam Kerala FC, and has hosted big tournaments like the Super Cup, Santosh Trophy, and the Sait Nagjee Football tournament.
5. DY Patil Stadium, Maharashtra
DY Patil Stadium, Mumbai, Maharashtra. Image | Mint
Capacity: 45,300
Built in: 2008
DY Patil Stadium in Mumbai is a spacious and modern multi-purpose sports arena, with a seating capacity of 45,300. While it is also used for cricket and big concerts, it's a very capable football stadium.
It has high-quality seating areas, awesome screens and sound system. The stadium has hosted matches during the 2017 FIFA U-17 World Cup, 2022 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup, 2022 AFC Women's Asian Cup and the 2023–24 AFC Champions League.
6. Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium, Kaloor, Kerala
Jawarhalal Nehru International Stadium, Kaloor. Image | Facebook
Capacity: 41,000
Built in: 1996
This stadium in Kerala holds 41,000 spectators and is famous for its incredibly passionate football fans. It is the home ground for the Kerala Blasters, a popular team in the ISL.
The energy here during the ISL matches is phenomenal. It is often known to have one of the best football atmospheres in India. This stadium is often picked because of its decent quality and overall experience.
7. Birsa Munda Football Stadium, Jharkhand
Birsa Munda Football Stadium. Image | X
Capacity: 40,000
Built in: 2009
With a capacity of 40,000, Birsa Munda Football Stadium in Ranchi is a major football hub in Jharkhand. It was opened in 2009, and has hosted many national tournaments with good remarks.
Its unique design makes it look eye-catching. It provides a significant platform for local teams and works to help the sport get bigger!
The Indian Super League (ISL) has consistently served as a launch pad for India’s most promising football talent. Here are top 5 Indian players to watch in ISL 2025.
The Indian Super League (ISL) has consistently served as a launch pad for India’s most promising football talent. The ISL 2024-25 season was no different, with young stars lighting up the league and charting the future course of Indian football.
Here are top 5 Indian players to watch in ISL 2025.
Dippendu Biswas, 21, made 14 appearances in a star-studded MBSG line-up and carved an impact with his defensive contributions, comprising 14 interceptions and victorious tackles each, 42 duels won and 39 recoveries.
He also occasionally delivered upfront; producing a goal and two assists and was named the ISL Emerging Player of the Month for February 2025.
2. Vinith Venkatesh | Bengaluru FC
Bengaluru FC has a track record of producing young talent for the nation. With Gerard Zaragoza in the managerial position, one of the players who made his mark this season is Vinith Venkatesh.
The 19-year-old impressed many with his dribbling and passing ability. A passing accuracy of 80per cent alongside 191 successful passes and 9 successful dribbles in only 602 minutes makes him a great prospect for the Blues’ future. Vinith has not only got a solitary goal and two assists to his name this ISL season but has also scored twice against Mohammedan SC and once against Mohun Bagan in the Durand Cup.
3. Brison Fernandes | FC Goa
Another player that has been a break-out talent this year is Brison Fernandes. From Goa’s under 18 team to being an out right starter, it has been quite a rise for Brison.
Brison has managed to impress with his dribbling and shooting capability scoring seven goals and assisting twice. The 23-year-old created 27 chances for the Gaurs and provided 25 key passes into the final third. With his direct play, the left-winger emerged as one of the most exciting young Indian players to watch this season.
4. Tekcham Abhishek Singh | Punjab FC
In only his second ISL campaign, defender Tekcham Abhishek Singh impressed with returns that saw him become the player with the third-most interceptions (47).
The 20-year-old won seven aerial duels, 17 tackles, 23 clearances, in addition to making 70 recoveries, while forming an impeccable partnership with Nikhil Prabhu, who made the most interceptions in the league in the season gone by (56).
NorthEast United made it to the play-offs after three years, while most of the credits go to its foreign players like Alaaeddine Ajaraie and Nestor Albiach, a player that went under the radar is young midfielder Macarton Nickson.
With 21 appearances and a passing accuracy of 73 per cent, he has really shone under Juan Pedro Benali this season. The 21-year-old has established himself as a box to box midfielder providing both in defence and attack.
Defensively, Macarton has 97 recoveries and 13 interceptions. In attack as well, he has been able to support by providing 2two goals, one assists and 22 successful dribbles making him a beautiful player to watch.
Indian football transfer News: India international Jithin MS to stay with NorthEast United FC till 2028
Jithin, 27, joined the Northeast United FC at the start of the 2022-23 season and turned out for the Highlanders 79 times across competitions with 14 goals and 15 assists so far.
NorthEast United FC on Friday announced that India international Jithin MS has signed a contract extension with the club, which will keep him with the club until the end of the 2028 season.
Jithin, 27, joined the club at the start of the 2022-23 season and turned out for the Highlanders 79 times across competitions with 14 goals and 15 assists so far. Jithin, who won the Santosh Trophy with Kerala (2017-18) and multiple I-League titles with Gokulam Kerala (2020-21, 2021-22), has flourished at NorthEast United FC.
Jithin’s impact reached new heights during the 133rd Durand Cup, where he was awarded the prestigious Golden Ball as the tournament’s Most Valuable Player. He scored four goals and provided three assists during the campaign, helping NorthEast United FC lift their first-ever major trophy.
In the 2024–25 ISL season, Jithin continued to impress with his electrifying pace and flair down the flanks. He was the only Indian player to feature in the league’s top ten for assists, finishing with five. He is sixth on the list of players with the most chances created (41 chances) and is one of the three NorthEast United FC players on the top-10 list, alongside Alaaeddine Ajaraie (52) and Buanthanglun Samte (43).
“My teammates and the coaching staff have helped me improve a lot, and their support has been instrumental in winning the Golden Ball and earning a call-up to the national team. I’m proud to have achieved these milestones with NorthEast United FC. This club has become home over the past three years, and I’m delighted to continue for another three years,” Jithin said.
“Jithin is an exceptional footballer, one of the best Indian players in his position, and what he has accomplished so far is truly commendable. His rise to becoming an India international is a testament to his relentless hard work, dedication, and hunger to grow every single day. I’m delighted that a player of Jithin’s calibre will continue with us for the next three years,” Juan Pedro Benali, head coach of NorthEast United FC, said.
“Jithin’s journey has been inspiring. His India call-up highlights the dedication and professionalism he brings to the pitch, embodying everything we strive for at NorthEast United FC. He is a key part of our journey, and we’re thrilled to have him with us for three more years,” Mandar Tamhane, CEO, NorthEast United FC, said.