Jamshedpur, January 5: Jamshedpur FC U-18 will head into a crucial group encounter when they take on Zinc Football Academy at the Flatlets Ground, with the Reliance Foundation Youth Development League Regional Qualifiers entering a decisive phase.

With only a point separating the two sides on the table, the match carries significant importance in the race for the top two spots. Jamshedpur FC currently hold a slender advantage over Zinc, but any slip-up could alter the standings dramatically with just a game remaining.

The Young Men of Steel come into the fixture with confidence after a commanding win in their previous outing, but head coach Kaizad Ambapardiwalla has stressed the need for focus and balance. “This is an important match and the boys are aware of what is at stake. Zinc are a good side and they are close to us on points, so we need to be disciplined, patient and play our football with intensity,” he said.

Zinc Football Academy have shown consistency in the group and have stayed in close contention throughout the qualifiers. Their ability to stay organised and competitive makes them a tough opponent, especially in a match where both teams know the value of every point.

For Jamshedpur, maintaining composure in key moments and converting chances will be crucial, as they look to build on recent momentum and strengthen their position in the standings. With qualification on the line, the clash at the Flatlets Ground promises to be a high-stakes contest between two evenly matched sides.