ISL 2024-25: Jamshedpur FC goes to Hyderabad in hopes of closing gap with leader Mohun Bagan
ISL 2024-25: Jamshedpur FC goes to Hyderabad in hopes of closing gap with leader Mohun Bagan
Bottom-placed Hyderabad FC will face fourth-placed Jamshedpur FC in the Indian Super League (ISL) at the G.M.C. Balayogi Athletic Stadium in Hyderabad on Thursday.
Former champion Hyderabad has accumulated just 10 points from 16 matches, while Jamshedpur boasts 28 points from 15 games. Historically, the two sides have clashed 11 times, with the Men of Steel claiming six victories compared to the Nizams’ solitary win. Four encounters have ended in a draw.
Khalid Jamil’s side will aim to extend its recent impressive form, having secured three wins and a draw in its last five matches. It is currently nine points behind league leader Mohun Bagan Super Giant. A victory in Hyderabad would see Jamshedpur leapfrog second-placed FC Goa (30 points) in the standings.
“Our preparation for this match is consistent with our approach to previous games. Performing well in away fixtures is crucial, and tomorrow’s (Thursday) game is almost a must-win for us,” said JFC head coach Khalid Jamil.
A key area of concern for Jamil’s side could be its defence’s vulnerability to long-range shots, having conceded a league-high eight goals from outside the box this season.
Jordan Murray is Jamshedpur’s top scorer with five goals, while Javi Hernandez and Javier Siverio have each netted four times, highlighting the team’s reliance on foreign players in attack.
On the other hand, Hyderabad has consistently been quick to mount an offensive, with 42 per cent of its goals this season coming in the opening 15 minutes. However, it must address its defensive frailties, having conceded multiple goals in three of the last four encounters with Jamshedpur FC.
Hyderabad FC’s interim head coach, Shameel Chembakath, has urged his players to be more clinical in the attacking third. “We need to be more clinical in the final third. We must secure all three points at home. JFC are very strong, and we know it will be a tough match,” he said.
