ISL 2024-25: Punjab FC Targets Playoffs as Jamshedpur FC Strives for Top Two
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Synopsis
Punjab FC will clash with Jamshedpur FC in the ISL 2024-25 at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, aiming for playoffs while Jamshedpur looks to rise in the standings. Both teams face critical moments in their campaigns.
Key Takeaways
- Punjab FC aiming for playoffs.
- Jamshedpur FC seeks to secure top two.
- Punjab is winless in last six matches.
- Jamshedpur scored multiple goals in recent away matches.
- Importance of unity stressed by coaches.
New Delhi, Jan 27 (NationPress) Punjab FC is set to face Jamshedpur FC in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Tuesday. The home team is eager to secure a playoff spot, while the visitors aim to ascend the points standings.
Currently, Jamshedpur FC sits fourth on the points table, having garnered 28 points from 16 matches, including nine victories and a single draw. In contrast, Punjab FC is positioned ninth, with 20 points from 15 matches, featuring six wins and two draws. They trail the sixth-placed NorthEast United FC by five points (25) but have played two fewer games (17), indicating a potential return to playoff contention if they can reverse their recent poor form.
At present, Punjab FC is grappling with a tough stretch, remaining winless in their last six matches (D2 L4). This current form mirrors a 10-game winless streak from their inaugural ISL season last year. Defensively, they have also faced challenges, conceding goals in each of their last six outings. Another match without a clean sheet would set a new record for them in the competition. Punjab FC is still seeking their first victory over Jamshedpur FC in the ISL, having failed to triumph in their previous three encounters (D1 L2). This match presents a chance for the Red Miners to complete a league double against Punjab FC.
On the other hand, Jamshedpur FC approaches the match with a strong attacking momentum, having netted multiple goals in their last two away fixtures. They suffered a close 3-2 defeat against Hyderabad FC but previously secured a notable 3-0 victory over Mumbai City FC earlier this month during an away match. This highlights a promising trend reminiscent of their productive streak of four away games with multiple goals between January and February 2023.
Jamshedpur FC's objective is to narrow the gap with second-placed FC Goa, who currently have 32 points from 17 games. They were aiming to close in on the top-ranked Mohun Bagan Super Giant (37), but the recent loss to Hyderabad FC has hindered their progress, prompting a need for a quick rebound to revitalize their season.
Punjab FC's head coach, Panagiotis Dilmperis, expressed optimism that a fully fit squad will aid in achieving success. “It’s encouraging that we finally have a full squad available. This will be beneficial in the final month and a half of the season to reclaim our success,” he stated.
Meanwhile, Jamshedpur FC's head coach, Khalid Jamil, emphasized the importance of unity in the game. “It’s a crucial match for both teams. We must take responsibility collectively and perform as one unit,” he remarked.
To date, the two teams have clashed three times, with Jamshedpur FC winning twice and one match ending in a draw.
