Jamshedpur FC secured a crucial 2-1 victory over Chennaiyin FC in their Indian Oil Durand Cup group stage match, marking their second win and all but ensuring their progression to the next round of the tournament. This win against their Indian Super League (ISL) rivals boosts their confidence as they aim for tournament glory and prepare for the ISL 2024-25 season as well.
The match began with Chennaiyin FC pressing hard in their final third. Their first chance came in the 5th minute with a free kick in a dangerous area, but Jamshedpur's Pratik Chaudhari showcased his defensive prowess by heading it away. Pratik continued to be a wall at the back, intercepting another advance in the 15th minute.
Jamshedpur's defense remained solid with goalkeeper Albino Gomes clearing the ball efficiently in the 18th minute.
The breakthrough for Jamshedpur came in the 32nd minute when a well-delivered corner kick by Mobashir Rahman found Augustin Muirang, who scored with a powerful header, giving Jamshedpur a 1-0 lead.
Chennaiyin FC had a golden opportunity to equalize in the 38th minute when they were awarded a penalty. However, luck was not on their side as the shot went wide, leaving Jamshedpur with their lead intact.
Jamshedpur made strategic substitutions at the start of the second half, bringing on Siverio and Shubham Sarangi. The change added fresh energy to the squad, and in the 54th minute, Imran Khan's direct shot was saved by Chennaiyin's goalkeeper.
Further substitutions in the 58th minute saw Jordan Murray and Rei Tachikawa coming on for Mobashir Rahman and Len Doungel, respectively. These changes paid off quickly as Jordan Murray scored in the 65th minute, heading in a precise cross from Imran Khan to double Jamshedpur's lead.
Jamshedpur continued to press, with Sanan's shot being collected by the Chennaiyin goalkeeper in the 63rd minute, and Imran Khan's cross being caught in the 68th minute. Rei Tachikawa came close to adding another goal in the 71st minute, but his shot missed the target by inches.
Siverio had a chance to further extend the lead in the 82nd minute, but his shot landed just above the crossbar.
With six minutes of added time, Chennaiyin FC managed to pull one back in 90+2 minutes when Vincy Barretto found the back of the net. However, it was too little, too late as Jamshedpur held on for the win.
Imran Khan was deservedly named the Player of the Match for his outstanding performance, including providing the crucial assist for the second goal.
Jamshedpur FC's 2-1 victory over Chennaiyin FC not only solidifies their position in the group but also sets a positive tone for the remainder of the tournament. The team's resilience and strategic gameplay were key to their success in this intense encounter.
Jamshedpur next play Indian Army Football Team on August 14 at the JRD Tata Sports Complex. Tickets for the same are available on Book My Show.
