Jamshedpur FC take on East Bengal at the Furnace on Sunday in their next Hero Indian Super League (ISL) game with a point to prove. The Men of Steel are keen to bounce back after a few defeats and will have their eyes set on this crucial clash to get back to winning ways. The loyal fans of Jamshedpur FC are expecting a big performance, and those in attendance could bear witness to a number of individual battles all across the pitch.
Peter Hartley vs Cleiton Silva
Jamshedpur FC’s rock at the back Peter Hartley has endured a slowish start to this campaign, but he remains the main man in defence for the club. Leading from the back, Hartley was instrumental in last season’s ISL shield-winning season, and is undoubtedly going to be back at his best as the season continues.
However, the man from Hartlepool would have his hands full against veteran forward Cleiton Silva on Sunday against East Bengal. Silva has already found the net three times for the Red and Gold Brigade this season, and will relish the challenge of coming up against one of the most solid defenders on his day. This promises to be a key battle you wouldn’t want to miss out on.
Ishan Pandita vs Ivan Gonzalez
Talk about a tasty encounter on paper. Ishan Pandita has finally found some form for Jamshedpur FC despite the club still waiting to kick start its season, and it couldn’t come at a better time. The forward scored his first goal of the campaign in his first start for JFC against Chennaiyin FC, and will have his eyes set on finding the back of the net once again against East Bengal.
Standing in his way, however, will be the familiar face of Ivan Gonzalez. Pandita and Gonzalez played together at FC Goa not too long ago, and would have faced each other in training multiple times, adding to the excitement of this battle. Ivan has been solid at the back for East Bengal this season, and will relish the chance to take on one of his former teammates.
Jitendra Singh vs Naorem Mahesh Singh
Jitendra Singh has quietly become one of Jamshedpur FC head coach Aidy Boothroyd’s key marshalls in midfield, partly owing to injuries to key players around him. However, Jitu has taken up the mantle of anchoring the team’s midfield with supreme ease, showcasing his class in a position that is often overlooked by the average casual fan.
The tenacious Jitu will, however, have to contend with the high-flying Naorem Mahesh Singh from East Bengal on Sunday. Singh scored in the club’s previous game against Odisha FC, albeit in a losing cause, and with two assists to his name already this campaign, will carry some serious momentum into this game. The young and lively Naorem will prove a handful for anyone, and Jitendra will be expected to stay sharp at all times to counter his obvious quality.
