Bambolim (Goa), Nov 1 (NationPress) Jamshedpur FC finally ignited their campaign in the All-India Football Federation (AIFF) Super Cup 2025-26, securing a 2-0 triumph over Inter Kashi in their concluding Group B fixture at the GMC Stadium in Bambolim, Goa, on Saturday.

Raphael Messi Bouli initiated the scoring in the 37th minute, followed by Manvir Singh who sealed the match in the 81st minute for the Red Miners. Although both teams were already eliminated from semifinal contention, this victory served as a confidence-boosting conclusion for Jamshedpur FC, who wrapped up an overall lackluster campaign on a positive note.

This match held significance for Jamshedpur as it was about pride. As two-time Super Cup semi-finalists and last year's runners-up, the team faced challenges under new head coach Steven Dias, failing to secure a win in their first two matches.

However, on Saturday, they rediscovered their momentum and determination. Right from the start, the Red Miners appeared the sharper and more motivated side, applying high pressure and controlling the game.

The initial minutes were tense, with both sides cautiously probing. However, by the 20th minute, Jamshedpur had taken command, creating opportunities down the left through Raphaël Messi Bouli, whose speed and strength consistently troubled the Kashi defense.

The Cameroonian forward appeared dangerous, combining effectively with Vincy Barretto and Mohammed Sanan, making it seem inevitable that the breakthrough would come from his side.

That breakthrough arrived in the 37th minute. Following a well-executed corner, Nikola Stojanović delivered a curling cross that deflected off Pronay Halder, looping invitingly into the box. Bouli, alert to the opportunity, soared above his defender and powered a header past Shubham Das for a 1-0 lead. Inter Kashi struggled to gain momentum.

Their midfield was often overwhelmed, and their attacking transitions stumbled under Jamshedpur’s relentless pressure. Aside from a few isolated runs by David Muñoz, Inter Kashi posed minimal threat in the first half.

The second half commenced with Jamshedpur maintaining their dominance. Stojanović continued to orchestrate play, establishing tempo and spreading the ball intelligently.

Inter Kashi finally registered their first shot on target in the 62nd minute when Muñoz’s dipping free-kick forced Albino Gomes into a crucial save. Ten minutes later, the Spaniard tested Gomes once more with another set-piece, but the goalkeeper made an impressive save.

Despite those brief moments, the night belonged to Jamshedpur. In the 69th minute, Bouli nearly doubled his tally, racing down the left before Das executed a decisive block.

Ultimately, Inter Kashi’s resistance crumbled again in the 81st minute. Bouli turned provider this time, skillfully chesting down a long pass and laying it off to Manvir Singh, who struck a low right-footed shot into the bottom corner to finalize the score.

With the score at 2-0, there was no comeback for Kashi. The Red Miners confidently managed the final minutes and achieved a commendable victory.