The 2023 season of the Indian Super League (ISL) concluded in March 2023, leaving behind a trail of thrilling matches, nail-biting finishes, and exceptional individual performances. As the dust settles, let’s revisit the season and answer the question – Who won ISL 2023?
The Road to the Finals: Playoff Drama and Underdog Stories
The 2023 ISL season saw a revamped playoff format, featuring six teams vying for the coveted trophy. The top two teams from the league stage, Mumbai City FC and Hyderabad FC, secured direct spots in the semi-finals. Meanwhile, teams placed third to sixth, including ATK Mohun Bagan, Bengaluru FC, Kerala Blasters FC, and Odisha FC, battled it out in knockout matches for the remaining semi-final berths.
These knockout encounters were filled with drama and surprises. ATK Mohun Bagan edged past Odisha FC 2-0, while Bengaluru FC emerged victorious against Kerala Blasters FC with a narrow 1-0 margin. The semi-finals witnessed even more excitement. Bengaluru FC, defying expectations, stunned the table-toppers Mumbai City FC through penalty shootouts after a 2-2 aggregate score. Similarly, ATK Mohun Bagan displayed resilience, overcoming Hyderabad FC via penalties after a goalless draw in the second leg.
The Grand Finale: Who won ISL 2023
The 2023 ISL final, held on March 18th, 2023, at the Fatorda Stadium in Goa, was a clash between two deserving finalists – ATK Mohun Bagan and Bengaluru FC. Both teams had displayed exceptional fighting spirit throughout the season, making for a highly anticipated finale.
The match itself lived up to the hype, with both sides showcasing attacking intent and defensive solidity. The score remained tied 2-2 even after extra time, pushing the game to a penalty shootout. In the nerve-wracking shootout, ATK Mohun Bagan emerged victorious with a 4-3 scoreline, clinching their first-ever ISL title.
Who won ISL 2023: ATK Mohun Bagan
ATK Mohun Bagan’s victory marked a significant milestone in the club’s history. The passionate Kolkata-based team, known for its loyal fanbase, had consistently challenged for the title in previous seasons. Their relentless pursuit, coupled with strategic planning and strong performances from players like Diego Mauricio, the Golden Boot winner, finally paid off in 2023.
Beyond the Champions: Celebrating Individual Brilliance
While the spotlight shines brightest on the champions, the 2023 ISL season witnessed exceptional individual performances from various players across different teams. Here are a few noteworthy mentions:
- Golden Boot Award: Diego Mauricio (ATK Mohun Bagan) – 12 goals
- Emerging Player of the Season: Lalengmawia Ralte (Mumbai City FC)
- Golden Glove Award: Gurpreet Singh Sandhu (Bengaluru FC)
These individual accolades recognize the contributions of players who significantly impacted their teams’ performances and left a lasting impression on the league.
The Legacy of ISL 2023
The 2023 ISL season was a testament to the league’s growing stature and competitiveness. With a captivating playoff format, unexpected results, and individual brilliance, the season kept fans engaged and excited throughout. As the league looks towards the future, the 2023 edition will undoubtedly be remembered as a thrilling chapter, leaving a legacy of inspiration for players, teams, and fans alike.