The Indian Super League (ISL Football) has revolutionized the way football is perceived in India, bringing professional football to the forefront and providing a platform for Indian players to showcase their skills. Since its inception in 2014, the league has attracted global talent while giving Indian footballers the opportunity to compete at the highest level. Among the most thrilling aspects of ISL Football is the emergence of Indian goal scorers, players who have made an indelible mark on the league’s history. In this post, we explore the seven best Indian goal scorers in ISL Football history, each of whom has played a crucial role in shaping the league’s success.
1. Sunil Chhetri – The King of Indian Football
Undoubtedly the greatest Indian footballer of his generation, Sunil Chhetri has been an iconic figure in ISL Football since its early days. As the captain of both the Indian national team and Bengaluru FC, Chhetri has consistently been a prolific goal scorer, showcasing his leadership and clinical finishing ability. As of 2025, he remains the all-time leading Indian goal scorer in ISL history. With his agility, tactical awareness, and ability to score from almost any position, Chhetri has become synonymous with Indian football. His remarkable ability to score goals under pressure and deliver when it matters most has earned him the title of “India’s Messi” in the ISL.
Chhetri’s contribution to Bengaluru FC’s success, including their title-winning campaigns, has cemented his place as the best Indian goal scorer in ISL Football history. His legacy continues to inspire the next generation of Indian footballers.
2. Jeje Lalpekhlua – The Silent Assassin
Jeje Lalpekhlua is another legendary figure in ISL Football, known for his remarkable consistency in front of goal. Having played for clubs like Chennaiyin FC and Mohun Bagan, Jeje quickly became one of the most feared Indian strikers in the league. With his ability to hold up play, find space, and finish with both feet, Jeje has scored some stunning goals during his career.
His most notable achievements came during Chennaiyin FC’s successful seasons in the ISL, where he helped the team clinch the title in 2015. Jeje’s unselfish work off the ball and clinical finishing have earned him a place among the best Indian goal scorers in the history of ISL Football.
3. Vineet Kundu – The Rising Star
Although relatively newer to the ISL Football scene, Vineet Kundu has quickly made a name for himself with his exceptional goal-scoring ability. Playing for FC Goa, Kundu has demonstrated incredible pace, skill, and an eye for goal. His ability to score from both open play and set pieces has made him a consistent threat in the attacking third.
Kundu’s rise to prominence has seen him notch up several important goals, making him one of the youngest Indian footballers to break into the league’s top goal-scoring charts. His agility and forward movement make him a constant menace for opposition defenses, and he is poised to continue his rise as one of the most exciting talents in ISL Football.
4. Ashique Kuruniyan – The Dynamic Forward
Ashique Kuruniyan’s journey in ISL Football has been a remarkable one, marked by his pace, technical ability, and sharp finishing. Playing for clubs like Kerala Blasters and Bengaluru FC, Kuruniyan has proven himself to be a versatile forward capable of scoring from various positions on the field. His ability to drive the ball forward with pace and create goal-scoring opportunities has been instrumental in his team’s success.
Though primarily known for his assists and build-up play, Kuruniyan has also showcased his prowess in front of goal. His combination of speed, strength, and vision has seen him become one of the most reliable goal-scoring Indians in the ISL.
5. Mohammad Rafique – The Midfield Maestro
While Mohammad Rafique is better known for his midfield work and ability to orchestrate play, he has also made a mark as one of the more reliable goal scorers in ISL Football. Playing for teams like Kerala Blasters and ATK Mohun Bagan, Rafique has scored several key goals during important matches, often making a difference in tight games.
His technical ability and football intelligence allow him to score goals from midfield, with a particular knack for arriving at the right place at the right time. Rafique’s goals have been pivotal in his teams’ successes, and his contributions as a goal-scoring midfielder cannot be understated.
6. Robin Singh – The Powerful Forward
Robin Singh’s towering presence on the field and ability to score goals with his head make him one of the most imposing strikers in ISL Football. Having played for clubs like Delhi Dynamos (now Odisha FC) and ATK Mohun Bagan, Singh’s goal-scoring ability has made him a regular feature in the league. His physicality and aerial ability have made him a nightmare for defenders, especially in set-piece situations.
Singh has scored several memorable goals, with his trademark header being a standout feature of his ISL career. As one of the best Indian goal scorers in the league’s history, Singh continues to be a powerful presence in the attacking third.
7. Farukh Choudhary – The Explosive Winger
Farukh Choudhary has made his mark in ISL Football as one of the most exciting young wingers in the league. His speed, technical ability, and flair have made him one of the most entertaining players to watch. Playing for Mumbai City FC, Choudhary has impressed with his work ethic and knack for finding the back of the net.
While Choudhary may not yet have the same goal-scoring record as some of the other players on this list, his impact on the field cannot be denied. His explosive runs and ability to create goal-scoring chances have helped Mumbai City FC become one of the top teams in the league. His evolution as a goal-scoring winger has made him one of the most promising talents in ISL Football.
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Conclusion: The Future of Indian Goal Scorers in ISL Football
The Indian Super League has provided a platform for Indian footballers to showcase their talents and compete at the highest level. The players highlighted above are just a few of the many Indian goal scorers who have made significant contributions to the league’s growth and success. As ISL Football continues to evolve, it is clear that these players have set the bar high for future generations of Indian footballers.
With the rise of young talents like Vineet Kundu and Farukh Choudhary, and the continued dominance of veterans like Sunil Chhetri, Indian football is on the cusp of a golden era. These goal scorers have not only helped elevate the league but have also inspired a new generation of Indian footballers to dream big and strive for greatness in the world of professional football.
As the ISL Football season progresses, we can only anticipate more incredible performances and memorable moments from these players, further cementing their places in Indian football history.
