The third edition of the Indian Super League is up and running with the teams picking up the pace from the get-go. North East United are leading the pack with two wins out of three but the John Abraham co-owned side faltered against Mumbai City in their third game. This has given the Blues of Mumbai the joint top spot followed by Delhi Dynamos. FC Goa are at the bottom of the table after Zico’s side lost both of their games.
An action packed first week just went by with some close fought football games that were decided by a single goal on a number of occasions. FC Pune City against Goa was decided by a last-gasp winner and the league is getting more and more enthralling with each passing game.
Also read: ISL 2016 Gameweek #1 – Stars and Flops
On that note, let's take a look at the team of the week from the opening games that went by :
Goalkeeper: Roberto Valpato
The Brazilian was signed as a deputy to Amarinder Singh but has cemented his place in Singh's absence and has two clean sheets in two games. The Blues had a dream first week, winning both of their games 1-0. Valpato was brilliant against FC Pune City, making some fantastic saves and he also had a stellar game against North East.
Defense
Right back: Reagan Singh
The Indian fullback has been an integral player for North East United and has been effective on the right flank. The defender has attempted 100 passes in three games and has a passing accuracy of 70%. The Salgaocar player's attacking runs forward provided an impetus for North East and he was easily one of the best players on the pitch in their inaugural game against Goa.
Centre back: Aiborlang Khongjee
The experienced Indian defender has been crucial in both of Mumbai's wins and his presence in the back line has provided a much-needed solidity to the side. Apart from his aerial prowess, Khongjee also has the ability to release the ball quickly under pressure, a much-needed attribute for a team that opts to play out from the defense, under new manager Alexandre Guimaraes.
Centre back : Sandesh Jhingan
Although Kerala have not set the ball rolling yet, the 23-year-old Jhingan has easily been their best player. The defender has played his part to perfection in all the three games but has been severely let down by his teammates. He produced a sublime performance against North East United but ended up on the losing side. Jhingan also played a key role in Kerala's 0-0 draw against Delhi Dynamos.
Left back: Sena Ralte
The marauding left-back has been a key member of Mumbai's squad this season. The new signing proved his worth with commanding displays in both the games. The former Aizawl captain's attacking runs were important in Mumbai's two victories but his contribution in defence was the key to keeping the Blues joint top of the table after the end of the first week of ISL 3.
Midfield
Centre midfield: Pronay Halder
Another one of Mumbai City's new signings, Halder has shone brightly this season. The midfielder was at his best against Pune in the opening game and was a constant thorn in their side, regaining possession at will and keeping the tempo of the game going. Halder has formed a solid partnership with Kristian Vadocz and the duo have won midfield battles in both their opening games.
Centre midfield: Koffi Cristian N'dri
North East United have started the season strongly and sit on top of the table with Koffi Cristian playing brilliantly in shielding the defence. The defensive midfielder debuted in ISL and is already looking like an inspired buy for North East. He was their best player in the first game against Kerala and has helped North East keep two clean sheets in their three games.
Left wing: Javi Lara Grande
Grande has been crucial in Kolkata's unbeaten start to the campaign and the 31-year-old has settled well into his new team. With 5 shots on target in two games, the Spaniard has been crucial in Kolkata's attacking play in the first week of ISL 3. He has been a terrific revelation for Kolkata with more exploits expected from him in the coming games.
Right wing: Sameehg Doutie
The South African winger has taken the league by storm after two eventful outings for Kolkata. The winger has already scored one goal for ATK. Doutie constantly terrified opposition fullbacks in his opening 2 games and he looks like a player that can take Kolkata on a good run this season. His work rate was visible in both the games and he delivered a man of the match performance against Kerala Blasters.
Attack
Striker: Marcelo Pereira
Delhi too are unbeaten after a week and the majority of that is due to Pereira’s exploits as a striker for the Dynamos. He scored a stunning brace against Chennai and completely terrorised their defence. His ability to create spaces for his teammates is the major reason Delhi are doing as well as they are this season.
Striker: Emiliano Alfaro
Alfaro has been North East United's talisman in their three games and he has already scored two goals. His performance against Goa, in particular, was absolutely outstanding. Alfaro has been crucial to their success not just because of his finishing skills but also because of his ability to stretch defences and also with his immense work rate.
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