ISL 2015: Marquee player analysis

The success of the inaugral season of the Indian Super League (ISL) saw it establish itself as one of the most popular and widely followed tournaments in the world of football. Registering the fourth highest attendance in football last year, ISL’s rise has seen it attract famed footballers who have reached the twilight of their career.The expectations surrounding these household names was sky high and although some have been able to live upto the hype, few have hardly justified their performances in this year’s tournament.In this weekly series, Sportskeeda will look to evaluate the performance of the marquee signings of each team and their contribution to their respective sides.

#1 Elano- Chennaiyin FC

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The first South derby of the second edition of the ISL saw Kerala Blasters share the spoils with Chennaiyin FC in a 1-1 draw. Once again it was Chennaiyin’s talisman that rose up to the occasion as he converted the spot kick to hand the away side the lead, thus continuing his fine form in the tournament this season as well.

Elano carried forward from where he had left off against FC Pune City in the last game and his cutting edge passes and ability to sway past defenders proved to be a constant truoble for the Blaster’s defense. While it wasn’t the most productive night for the former Manchester City star who apart from that one long ranged effort and the penalty, never quite came close to testing Bywater in the opposition goal.

The 34-year old scored what turned out to be his third goal of the season, but his overall influence on the game was minimal as failed to create chances Stiven Mendoza or Jeje throughout the game, and was thus replaced by Bruno Pelissari in the final few minutes. 

While the goal will provide some much needed confidence, Marco Materazzi will be wishing his marquee signing can continue to live up to the standards he has set for himself in the tournament.