ISL 2024-25: Jamshedpur FC narrowly defeats Punjab FC in a closely fought match
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Jamshedpur, Dec 13 (NationPress) Javier Siverio’s two-goal performance propelled Jamshedpur FC to a 2-1 victory over Punjab FC during the Indian Super League (ISL) match held at the JRD Tata Sports Complex on Friday. Pulga Vidal scored for Punjab, who dropped to fifth place in the standings with 18 points, while Jamshedpur ascended to sixth, sharing the same point total from 10 matches.
Punjab faced an early setback as Filip Mrzljak was forced to exit due to injury, leading to Asmir Suljic stepping in. The Red Miners adhered to their strategy of delivering long balls into Punjab’s territory, continuously pressuring the defense with set pieces. Attempts from Stephen Eze and Javier Siverio were thwarted by the defense as Jamshedpur consistently regained possession from long throw-ins executed by their fullbacks.
The home team ultimately took the lead in the dying moments of the first half through a similar tactic. Eze flicked a throw-in past the advancing goalkeeper Muheet Shabir, which was skillfully redirected by Javi Hernandez to Siverio. The Spaniard expertly finished past a cluster of defenders to put his team ahead.
The best opportunities of the first half belonged to the Shers earlier on. Nihal Sudeesh delivered a precise low cross to Pulga Vidal after a strong run down the left flank, but the forward sent his shot soaring over the crossbar. Just before injury time, Luka Majcen struck the post with a header following a cross from Vidal down the left.
Punjab FC equalized in the very first minute of the second half. Asmir Suljic found Luka Majcen inside the box, who then discovered Pulga Vidal unmarked at the far post. The Argentinian easily slotted the ball into the net for his third goal of the season.
Javi Hernandez nearly scored with a volley from the edge of the box, forcing a save from Muheet, which was the closest either team came to scoring in the second half. Punjab maintained a high line, winning the midfield battle and controlling possession, yet clear chances remained scarce. Albino Gomes made consecutive saves against Leon Augustine and a free kick from Pulga Vidal to keep the match level.
Jamshedpur netted the decisive goal six minutes before the final whistle, again through Javier Siverio. Nikhil Barla delivered a perfect cross between the two Punjab center-backs, which Siverio met with conviction, heading it past the outstretched arms of Muheet. The Red Miners managed to hold on for the remaining minutes, securing all three points as Punjab faced their third away defeat of the season.
Punjab FC will head to Kolkata for their next match on December 17 against East Bengal at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan.
