Jamshedpur, January 30: Jamshedpur FC Under-18 will face table-toppers Inter Kashi in a crucial AIFF Elite League encounter at the JRD Tata Sports Complex on January 31, with kickoff scheduled for 9 AM.
With both teams unbeaten so far in the competition, the fixture is shaping up to be a major turning point in the race for the top spot. Inter Kashi currently lead the table with 19 points from nine matches, while Jamshedpur FC are close behind with 17 points from seven games, having two matches in hand.
The contest at JRD carries significant importance for both sides. A win for Jamshedpur would put them firmly back in the title race and reduce the gap at the top, while Inter Kashi will be keen to strengthen their hold on first place and maintain their unbeaten run.
When both the teams faced each other at Varanasi, the match ended in a fiercely-contested 2-2 stalemate.
Jamshedpur FC have shown strong character throughout the season, combining disciplined defensive organisation with an aggressive attacking approach. The Young Men of Steel have grown steadily with each game and will look to make the most of home conditions against one of the strongest sides in the league.
Inter Kashi, meanwhile, arrive in Jamshedpur with consistency on their side, having picked up points regularly across nine outings. Their ability to control games and grind out results has kept them at the summit, making Friday’s clash a true test of temperament and tactical discipline.
Speaking ahead of the match, head coach Kaizad Ambapardiwalla stressed the importance of focus and mindset going into the encounter.
“We know how important this match is for both teams, but our approach remains the same. The boys have shown maturity throughout the season, and the focus is on playing with intensity and discipline. Matches like these help the players grow, and we are looking forward to the challenge at home,” Kaizad said.
With both sides yet to taste defeat and the top of the table at stake, Friday morning’s fixture promises to be a high-intensity battle as two in-form teams go head-to-head at the Furnace.
