Kolkata, February 27 (NationPress) In an exhilarating encounter, substitute Rei Tachikawa delivered a remarkable performance, netting a late goal that propelled Jamshedpur FC to a thrilling 2-1 victory against East Bengal FC during their inaugural away match of the season in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2025-26 at Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan on Saturday.

The match proved to be one of the most captivating of the season, showcasing the resilience of the Men of Steel as they overturned an early deficit, clinching their third consecutive win, this time on the home ground of their Kolkata rivals.

Jamshedpur initiated the game with high energy, displaying attacking intent right from the start. Messi Bouli had an early chance, finding the net but was ruled offside. Shortly after, Vincy Barretto surged down the right flank, testing the opposing goalkeeper, who deflected his shot.

Continuing to apply pressure, the Men of Steel saw Nikola Stojanovic unleash a powerful effort from distance, which was confidently saved by the East Bengal keeper following a well-coordinated attack. With Sanan Mohammed and Vincy Barretto effectively utilizing the wings and Madih Talal orchestrating the play centrally, Jamshedpur appeared formidable both in offense and defense.

However, the hosts managed to break the deadlock in the 41st minute, compelling Jamshedpur to regroup ahead of halftime.

As the second half commenced, Jamshedpur displayed urgency in their pursuit of an equalizer. Stephen Eze made a vital sliding interception early on to thwart a threatening East Bengal cross, nearly scoring himself. From a free kick, Eze directed a powerful header towards the far post, but the East Bengal goalkeeper was quick to intervene.

The equalizer came shortly after, with Eze rising above the defenders to head the ball home from a corner, leveling the score and setting the stage for a thrilling finish.

With momentum favoring them, the Men of Steel unleashed a barrage of attacks. Madih Talal forced a spectacular save from the goalkeeper, and Messi Bouli had his angled shot deflected away. On the other end, goalkeeper Albino Gomes kept Jamshedpur in contention with a strong punch to prevent a close-range strike, as the match transformed into an exciting back-and-forth affair.

Late in the game, Jamshedpur controlled possession, patiently searching for a breakthrough. The pivotal moment arrived in the 87th minute when substitute Rei Tachikawa made his mark. Following a slick series of passes, Sanan Mohammed set up the Japanese midfielder, who expertly curled a shot into the top corner, giving Jamshedpur the lead.

The visitors expertly held on through seven minutes of stoppage time, securing a memorable comeback win and extending their impressive form in the league.

Next, the Men of Steel will face Inter Kashi at the JRD Tata Sports Complex on March 6.