Bengaluru, February 9: Jamshedpur FC endured a tough night at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium as they fell 3-0 to Bengaluru FC in a high-intensity Indian Super League (ISL) clash. Goals from Edgar Méndez in the first half, followed by a brace from Alberto Noguera, sealed the win for the hosts, while Jamshedpur remained in third place despite the setback.
The match started with drama in the 11th minute when Sourav Das fouled Suresh Singh inside the box, earning Bengaluru a penalty. However, Albino Gomes came to Jamshedpur’s rescue with a stunning save to deny Sunil Chhetri, diving acrobatically to his right to parry away the effort. The Jamshedpur goalkeeper, who now leads the ISL in saves, produced another strong performance despite the defeat.
Jamshedpur looked dangerous in attack, creating sharp chances through quick passes and unexpected crosses. Rei Tachikawa had an opportunity in the 18th minute but sent his shot over the bar, while Sana Singh attempted an overhead kick in the 23rd minute that was comfortably collected by the Bengaluru keeper. Pratik Chaudhari then came up with a crucial goal-line clearance in the 30th minute, keeping the score level.
However, the deadlock was broken in the 43rd minute under unusual circumstances. A drop ball was awarded near the Jamshedpur box after the ball hit the referee. Pratik Chaudhari attempted to clear it, but Chhetri intercepted and laid it off to Méndez, who slotted it past Albino to give Bengaluru the lead.
The second half saw Bengaluru take control, doubling their advantage in the 57th minute when Noguera found the net with a well-placed shot. Jamshedpur struggled to find a way back, and Noguera struck again in the 82nd minute to put the game beyond reach.
Despite the defeat, Jamshedpur FC remain third in the ISL standings. They will look to regroup quickly as they continue their push for a top-two finish in the coming matches. Jamshedpur FC face NorthEast United FC in the next encounter at home on February 13.