From Vishnu to Prabhu: Key ISL 2024-25 Players Missing the Playoffs
Click to start listening
Synopsis
The ISL 2024-25 league stage concluded with Mohun Bagan Super Giant as champions. Several top players like Hugo Boumous and Connor Shields shone despite their teams missing the playoffs. Here's a look at their contributions and performances during the season.
Key Takeaways
- Mohun Bagan Super Giant retained the League Shield.
- Top performers like Hugo Boumous and Jesus Jimenez missed the playoffs.
- ISL 2024-25 playoffs start on March 29.
- Players showcased impressive stats throughout the season.
- The final will take place on April 12.
Mumbai, March 21 (NationPress) The Indian Super League (ISL) league phase came to a close with Mohun Bagan Super Giant successfully defending the League Shield in a commanding manner. They are joined by FC Goa, Bengaluru FC, NorthEast United FC, Jamshedpur FC, and Mumbai City FC in the playoffs.
As the top six teams gear up to contest the ISL Cup following the international break, the league's standout players are poised to shine in the playoff rounds and make a lasting impact on the season.
However, with seven teams exiting at the conclusion of the league stage, several of ISL's finest talents will not partake in the playoffs due to their teams falling short. Nevertheless, their contributions this season remain noteworthy.
As we reflect on a thrilling league campaign, let’s explore the standout players from ISL 2024-25 who made significant impressions throughout this captivating season.
Hugo Boumous (Odisha FC)
The attacking midfielder made his way to the Kalinga Warriors in the summer and lived up to expectations as he led their midfield. A constant challenge for defensive midfielders, Boumous adeptly found space between the midfield and defensive lines. With a tally of five goals and seven assists, he created considerable trouble for opponents and almost secured a playoff spot for Odisha FC.
Connor Shields (Chennaiyin FC)
One of the league's standout players, Shields will not feature in the playoffs after Chennaiyin FC fell short of the top six. However, the Scottish midfielder was the creative heartbeat of the Chennaiyin FC squad, leading the league with the most assists (8) and creating an impressive 76 chances—21 more than the second-best player, Adrian Luna of Kerala Blasters FC.
Jesus Jimenez (Kerala Blasters FC)
In need of a replacement for the ISL 2023-24 Golden Boot winner, Dimitrios Diamantakos, Kerala Blasters FC found a fitting successor in Jimenez, who consistently posed a goal-scoring threat. With 11 goals in his debut ISL season, he ranks joint third for the most goals scored at the end of the league stage, and the Blasters will certainly rely on him in the upcoming season.
Diego Mauricio (Odisha FC)
The Odisha FC striker has consistently performed well in the ISL, and despite not leading his team into the playoffs, the Brazilian had a commendable season. With nine goals and six assists, Mauricio was the key player in the Juggernauts' attack, proving to be their primary goal threat amidst rising competition for his position.
Noah Sadaoui (Kerala Blasters FC)
After moving to Kerala Blasters FC from FC Goa, Sadaoui quickly showcased his talent in the yellow and blue. Despite being hampered by injuries, he still managed to finish with seven goals and five assists in just 19 matches. Had he remained injury-free, the Blasters might have been much closer to the playoff spots.
PV Vishnu (East Bengal FC)
The standout player for East Bengal FC this season, PV Vishnu captured the fans' attention. As a dynamic presence on the wings, Vishnu emerged as the Red and Gold Brigade’s most impactful player, contributing four goals and three assists. The 23-year-old demonstrated qualities that position him as a future pillar of the East Bengal FC squad.
Luka Majcen (Punjab FC)
Consistently delivering strong performances, Majcen scored ten goals and provided three assists this season. Though he missed several matches due to injury, his contributions could have been even greater. Majcen continues to serve as an inspiration for a young team, leading them effectively despite Punjab FC's decline after a promising start.
Alexis Gomez (Mohammedan SC)
The Argentine midfielder was recognized as Mohammedan SC’s standout player this season, enhancing the team's quality with his energy and creativity. He created 38 chances, ranking him eighth in the league, and completed 615 passes. With 20 shots on goal, he significantly outperformed any other Mohammedan SC player.
Irfan Yadwad (Chennaiyin FC)
The striker from Chennaiyin FC enjoyed a stellar season, contributing to nine goals. At just 23 years old, he emerged as one of the best Indian forwards, consistently posing a threat to opponents and creating 20 chances for his team. His impressive performance earned him a call-up to the Indian national team, where he aims to make a lasting impact.
Nikhil Prabhu (Punjab FC)
At 24 years old, this defender-turned-midfielder was among Punjab FC’s most reliable performers this season, effectively anchoring the central midfield role. Leading the league in interceptions (56), Prabhu exhibited exceptional tactical discipline. He also achieved 31 tackles and created seven chances, demonstrating his versatility, which has been invaluable to the Shers over recent seasons.
The ISL 2024-25 playoffs are set to commence on March 29 with the Knockouts scheduled for March 29 and 30, followed by two-legged semi-finals on April 2-3 & 6-7. The eagerly awaited final of the 2024-25 season will occur on April 12.
