Jamshedpur, May 20: Jamshedpur FC will head into their final league fixture of the season knowing that the dream of lifting the Indian Super League title remains alive.
The Men of Steel will host Odisha FC at the JRD Tata Sports Complex on May 21 at 7:30 PM in what promises to be a dramatic night, with five teams still mathematically in contention for the championship.
Currently third in the standings with 21 points from 12 matches, Jamshedpur FC can finish the season on 24 points if they defeat Odisha FC. However, their title hopes also depend on results elsewhere.
For Owen Coyle’s side to be crowned champions, they must first secure all three points at the Furnace. In addition, the match between Punjab FC and Mumbai City FC must end in a draw, while East Bengal FC and Mohun Bagan Super Giant must both fail to win their final fixtures.
Head coach Owen Coyle clarified the equation and stressed that his team’s priority is simple.
“The first thing that must happen is we must win our game,” Coyle said. “If we win our game and Punjab and Mumbai draw, then we finish above both of those teams. Mohun Bagan and East Bengal do not have to lose. They just do not have to win. But that counts for nothing unless we win our game.”
Despite the disappointment of last week’s narrow defeat to Bengaluru FC, which ended Jamshedpur FC’s unbeaten home record, Coyle said the squad has responded strongly.
“It was easy enough to lift the boys because they are a terrific group to work with,” he said. “We knew we did not deserve to lose that game, but football can be cruel. Our focus now is on winning tomorrow and then seeing where that takes us.”
The coach also reiterated that his side would continue to play on the front foot.
“We never play defensive. Every game we play to win,” he said. “Our determination is to go and attack, score goals and try to get the three points.”
Captain Stephen Eze echoed his coach’s confidence and insisted the players are approaching the occasion with composure. “We are not playing under any pressure,” Eze said. “Other teams have more pressure than us. We just need to play our normal game, fight for every ball and get the three points.”
The Nigerian defender stressed the importance of staying focused against an Odisha FC side with nothing to lose.
“We don’t underrate any team,” he said. “They have nothing to lose and can spoil it for you. We need to make sure we keep the back line clean and convert our chances.”
Both Coyle and Eze also called on supporters to turn out in large numbers and create one final memorable atmosphere at the Furnace.
“Come along, bring your brothers, your sisters, your mums and your dads,” Coyle said. “The fans have been incredible all season.”
Eze added, “I want to say a very big thank you to the fans. This is the last game of the season and they should come all out and stand behind the team just as they always do.”
The tickets for the match can be booked online through the app District by Zomato. The match will be live on Fancode and Sony Sports Network.
