ISL 2026-27 opening weekend: Four U-23 Indians who stood out

Several U-23 Indian players impressed during the opening weekend of the Indian Super League (ISL) 2026-27, which featured matches across venues including Bengaluru FC's 3-2 victory over Sporting Club Delhi at Sree Kanteerava Stadium and Kerala Blasters’ 2-0 win over Inter Kashi in Pune.

The first weekend produced late drama and a mix of results: FC Goa and Chennaiyin FC drew 1-1 at Fatorda with Chiki’s header earning Goa a point; debutants Churchill Brothers beat Mumbai City FC 2-1, with Gaurav Bora scoring the club’s first-ever ISL goal; and a late strike from Jithin MS secured a win for the Highlanders over the Mariners in a perfect start to their #MGISL13 campaign. Menno Koch’s 89th-minute header completed Bengaluru’s comeback after Sporting Club Delhi had earlier levelled through Rodriguinho in the 26th minute.

Hnamte was Sporting Club Delhi’s creative hub against Bengaluru, playing the full 90 minutes, creating four chances and providing an assist that allowed Rodriguinho to score from close range in the 26th minute. The 23-year-old’s energy, composure and passing ability were clear positives for the side despite Delhi’s narrow defeat.

Soham Varshneya played a decisive role for Bengaluru FC in their comeback, delivering the cross that Menno Koch headed home in the 89th minute to secure all three points. The 22-year-old’s well-timed deliveries and attacking contributions were cited as key factors in the decisive moment of the match.

Vibin Mohanan opened the scoring for Kerala Blasters in the 18th minute of their 2-0 victory over Inter Kashi in Pune and also created two chances during the game. The 23-year-old’s early goal helped the Blasters establish control of the contest and demonstrated his capacity to contribute beyond finishing.

Tekcham Abhishek Singh produced an encouraging display from defence, creating four chances and involving himself in the attacking phase to help his team build opportunities. The 21-year-old’s performance was described as offering encouraging signs for Mohun Bagan and marked him out as a young player to watch as the season progresses.

With the season only just underway, Hnamte, Soham, Vibin and Tekcham have offered an early glimpse of the young Indian talent on display in the ISL 2026-27. Their contributions over the opening weekend highlighted the growing opportunities for emerging players to make an impact, and their performances will be worth following as the ISL campaign unfolds.