ISL 2024-25: Jamshedpur FC Hosts FC Goa in Top-2 Clash, Unbeaten Streak at Stake
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Synopsis
As Jamshedpur FC prepares to face FC Goa in the ISL 2024-25, both teams aim to secure their positions in the top two spots. The match promises to be a thrilling contest as Jamshedpur seeks to overtake Goa, while the Gaurs look to maintain their lead.
Key Takeaways
- Jamshedpur FC is currently third in the points table.
- They have an impressive home record with four wins in their last five matches.
- FC Goa has been strong defensively, shutting out opponents in their last two games.
- Khalid Jamil emphasizes the need for a positive result at home.
- Brison Fernandes is on the verge of a personal milestone with a goal against Jamshedpur FC.
Jamshedpur, Feb 1 (NationPress) Currently sitting in third place in the standings and aiming for a higher rank, Jamshedpur FC is poised to welcome FC Goa in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 at the JRD Tata Sports Complex this Sunday. They are eager to surpass the second-placed Gaurs.
The Red Miners boast 31 points from 17 matches, comprising 10 wins and a single draw, placing them third overall. They trail the leading Mohun Bagan Super Giant, who holds 40 points, by nine, although the Mariners have played one more game than Jamshedpur FC.
Their immediate goal is to overtake FC Goa, currently in second place with 33 points from the same number of matches as Jamshedpur FC. Under the guidance of Khalid Jamil, they have an opportunity to achieve a league double over the Gaurs, having previously defeated Manolo Marquez’s squad 2-1 in their earlier meeting on September 17.
Jamshedpur FC is enjoying a strong home record, remaining unbeaten in their last five home games with four victories. However, they have only managed one win in their last five encounters against FC Goa at this venue, suffering three losses and one draw.
Additionally, they have not achieved a clean sheet in any of these matches, which could motivate the FC Goa attack, having scored 32 goals in 17 games this season. On the defensive end, FC Goa has been solid lately, registering shutouts in their last two ISL matches. Their longest such streak this season occurred between October and December 2023, which included a 1-0 victory over Jamshedpur FC.
Overall, this matchup is critical for those competing for the top two spots. The top two teams at the conclusion of the league stage qualify directly for the semifinals, while teams finishing from third to sixth will engage in a single-legged eliminator at the higher-ranked team's home ground. A win for Jamshedpur FC would elevate them above FC Goa in the table, while a victory for the Gaurs would create a significant gap between the two teams, ensuring this fixture remains intriguing.
Set-piece threat from Jamshedpur FC
Jamshedpur FC has maximized their strengths this season, evidenced by their leading tally of 22 shots from throw-ins, the highest in the league. They have executed at least one shot from a throw-in in their last six matches, indicating they capitalize on every opportunity.
Furthermore, Jamshedpur FC has scored four penalty goals this season, tied for the most with Odisha FC. Conversely, FC Goa has conceded five penalty goals, the joint-highest alongside Chennaiyin FC and Kerala Blasters FC. The Gaurs must closely monitor their defensive actions within the penalty area.
Head coach Khalid Jamil emphasized the importance of a positive result in this match. "We are preparing well. The team is entirely focused. We need to secure a favorable outcome on our home turf," he stated.
FC Goa's impressive away record
FC Goa has been outstanding offensively in away matches, netting goals in their last eight ISL games on the road. They have also established their longest unbeaten streak away from home, winning and drawing four times each.
Brison Fernandes has scored six goals this season. A goal against Jamshedpur FC would make him the seventh Indian player to score 7 or more goals in a single ISL season. He has also made 49 recoveries and won 60 duels.
Head coach Manolo Marquez praised Jamshedpur FC’s performance this season, remarking, "It’s very challenging to compete against Jamshedpur FC. One can never relax in this match due to their fantastic season."
The two teams have faced each other 15 times in the ISL, with FC Goa winning eight matches, Jamshedpur FC winning five, and two matches ending in a draw.
