GameWeek 1 BREAKDOWN
This being said, we witnessed a handful of good matches this week. At the end of GW1, East Bengal FC sits on top of the table with 3 points after a dominating win against NorthEast United FC at home with a brace from their new striker, Youssef Ejezzari and a goal from their shiny midfielder from Brazil, Miguel. Mohun Bagan takes the 2nd Position with a 2-goal win, courtesy of Jamie Maclaren opening the account followed by Aussie Centre Back, Tom Aldred, in the opening game of ISL against Kerala Blasters FC that was a sight to watch, especially because of the star-studded performance from Apuia.
Similar to Bagan, Bengaluru FC also won 2-0 against Sporting Delhi where Sivashakti scored the first goal and the last-minute goal came from none other than Sunil Chetri who slotted it from far with the goalkeeper off his position. Jamshedpur FC dominated the game against all-Indian squad Mohammedan SC but their only goal was scored by Madih Talal that went into the net from a deflection. Messi Bouli got plenty of chances but failed to convert them. Mumbai City FC managed to squeeze past Chennaiyan FC due a cross from Joni Kauko being mishandled by Pritam Kotal who scored an own goal. Newly-promoted side Inter Kashi FC coached by Antonio Lopez Habas, had to share the spoils with FC Goa after their Spanish goalkeeper, Lluis Tarres, got sent off at 80’ and Drazic equalized for the Gaur home fans.
With Oscar's Masterclass, East Bengal go top of the Table for the first time in ISL History
Source: MBFT
BEST XI of the Week: -
The goalkeeper that stood out was Mohammad Nawaz of Chennaiyan FC who made plenty of saves for his team and denied many chances to Mumbai City FC but failed to keep a clean sheet after he conceded an unfortunate own goal from defender Pritam Kotal.In Defence, Tekcham Abhishek Singh performed splendidly on his ISL debut for the Mariners. From his pre-assist through pass, he contributed largely to Jamie scoring the first goal of ISL 2025/26. His pros would be passing, presence of mind and unmatched pace with the ability to play on both left and right back positions. Nikhil Poojary on the other hand was phenomenal for BFC. He made runs deep into the opposition’s box, delivering crosses, one of which led to the first goal. Stephen Eze stood his ground and won all his aerial duels as a centre back, along with facilitating proper ball distribution that ensured JFC three points with a clean sheet. Tom Aldred came on as a sub for Mehtab Singh late into the game but this presence was necessary to establish aerial dominance in the box to thwart Kevin Yoke’s attempts to equalize for KBFC. He sealed the deal with a clean header in dying minutes, putting Bagan 2nd on the table. In a 13-match league, every goal counts!
In the midfield, Apuia’s masterclass was visible all over the pitch. Right from the first match, his performance showed why he is currently the best midfielder of India. Miguel deserves appreciation for scoring as well as playing a sensational game against NorthEast United FC, taking his team to the top of the table. Ex-Mariner Pronay Halder still seems to have his touch. He made clinical interceptions and worked tirelessly to keep the pressure on MSC all game. Madih Talal dominated as the playmaker for his new team, Jamshedpur FC, with a volley of attacks and chances being created while scoring a goal of his own for the team.
In the attack, Youssef and Maclaren are clear favourites. Youssef scored a brace which makes him the top scorer of GW1. Jamie as the Green and Maroon striker pressed high and deep, and made crucial runs into the box which proved effective as he scored the opening goal of ISL 2025/26.
The coach of GW1 award goes to Oscar Bruzon who meticulously played his squad against NEUFC and reached top of the table while keeping a clean sheet inspite of 2 main team defenders, Kevin and Rakip being unavailable for the match. That wraps up the Best XI of GameWeek 1.
BEST XI of GameWeek1
Expectations from GW 2: -
Both Punjab FC and Odisha FC will begin their campaign from GameWeek 2 facing Jamshedpur FC and Inter Kashi respectively. Table Toppers EBFC will go for the full 3 points against Sporting Delhi aiming to retain their top spot. The blockbuster match of the week has to be Mohun Bagan facing Chennaiyan FC at home. With a revamped squad with ISL-experienced foreigners, they will pose a serious threat to the Mariners. After losing against Mumbai City FC, they will not back down without a fight. All eyes on Sergio Lobera who will settle for nothing less than 3 points on Monday.Follow MBFT on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Youtube, Telegram, Whatsapp & Google News to stay updated with all the Mohun Bagan & Indian Football related News & Updates. Jai Hind Jai Bharat! Joy Mohun Bagan!
