Matchweek 3 of the Indian Super League brought forth a series of captivating fixtures, with notable highlights including Parthib Gogoi’s historic goal-scoring streak for NorthEast United FC, the intense 2-1 clash between Mumbai City FC and Kerala Blasters FC marked by on-field chaos, and FC Goa’s last-gasp 3-2 victory over Odisha FC, featuring Jay Gupta’s memorable injury-time winner. Sahal Abdul Samad and Dimitrios Petratos also played crucial roles in Mohun Bagan Super Giant’s commanding 3-1 triumph over Chennaiyin FC. Here are some of the key moments and takeaways from this eventful match week in the ISL.
Sahal and Petratos star as Mohun Bagan extend their unbeaten run
Mohun Bagan Super Giant (MBSG) dominated Chennaiyin FC in a splendid 3-1 win, maintaining their flawless record in the Indian Super League 2023-24 season. Sahal Abdul Samad Ali orchestrated the show, providing a perfect cross for Dimitrios Petratos to score with a fantastic header.
Throughout the game, Samad’s precise passes and Liston Colaco’s dynamic play confused the hosts, highlighting MBSG’s control. Jason Cummings added to the lead just before halftime, capitalizing on a deflected shot by Samad. Despite a brief spark from Chennaiyin with Rafael Crivellaro’s free-kick, Manvir Singh quickly restored MBSG’s dominance with a goal assisted by Samad.
Petratos, the Australian player, stood out by disrupting Chennaiyin FC’s defense. His clever use of the false nine role, accurate passing, and goal-scoring skills showcased football finesse. Under Juan Ferrando’s strategy, Petratos smoothly navigated past Chennaiyin FC’s defense, securing another win for MBSG in their impressive season in this edition of the Indian Super League.
The Islanders’ victory over Kerala Blasters marred by on-field clashes
In their inaugural home fixture of the season, Mumbai City FC secured a 2-1 victory against Kerala Blasters FC, with goals courtesy of Jorge Pereyra Diaz and Lalengmawia Ralte. This triumph propelled Des Buckingham’s squad to an unblemished record in the Indian Super League 23/24 season, having navigated through three rounds without defeat.
The encounter, however, escalated into a tempestuous affair, reaching a regrettable climax in the closing moments. The referee brandished no fewer than 10 yellow cards and issued two direct reds as tensions flared both on the field and within the dugouts.
As the second half extended into a dramatic 10 minutes of added time, the match took a dark turn when Kerala’s Milos Drincic, in a contentious move, forcefully pushed Mumbai’s Mehtab Singh to the ground. This incited chaos, resulting in Drincic being promptly shown the red card. Yoell van Nieff also faced expulsion for his involvement in the altercation.
While Mumbai City FC ultimately clinched the three points, the unsavory scenes in the dying minutes cast a shadow over the contest, presenting a less-than-ideal spectacle for a league celebrating its milestone 10th season.
Parthib Gogoi continues to impress
Parthib Gogoi made history as the first NorthEast United FC player to score in four consecutive games, showcasing an impressive feat in the ongoing season of the Indian Super League.
In a hard-fought encounter that concluded in a 1-1 draw between Punjab FC and NorthEast United FC in Delhi, Parthib Gogoi’s standout performance took center stage. Punjab FC exhibited a considerable defensive improvement, attributed to the presence of Greek defender Dimitrios Chatziisaisas, whose inclusion fortified the backline and posed challenges for the NorthEast United FC forwards.
However, Parthib Gogoi’s brilliance stood out as he managed to stun Punjab FC with a remarkable goal. Throughout the match, Gogoi constantly troubled the Punjab FC defense with his exceptional link-up play between the lines, seamlessly connecting with his fellow North East United FC forwards, and consistently causing mayhem for the opposition. His exceptional form throughout the season is truly remarkable, and his contributions remain a highlight in the campaign.
Late jubilation for FC Goa and Jay Gupta
In a thrilling clash at Fatorda’s Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, FC Goa secured a 3-2 victory over Odisha FC with an electrifying injury-time goal by newcomer Jay Gupta. Noah Sadaoui’s brace and Mourtada Fall’s double set the stage for a nail-biting encounter.
Odisha FC initiated the scoring in the 6th minute through Mourtada Fall’s volley from a corner kick. FC Goa responded aggressively, with notable attempts by Brandon Fernandes and Carl McHugh in the first half. Despite trailing by a goal at halftime, FC Goa displayed unwavering promise.
The second half witnessed a spectacular battle, culminating in Gupta’s 96th-minute winner, distinguishing him as the game-changer. Sadaoui’s dynamic plays troubled the Odisha FC defense throughout, but Gupta’s curling effort stole the spotlight, marking another success for FC Goa in nurturing emerging Indian talent in this edition of the Indian Super League.
IFTWC’s Indian Team of ISL Gameweek – 3
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