Mumbai, April 8: As the senior sides of Jamshedpur FC and Mohun Bagan SG recently clashed in the Indian Super League, another riveting encounter is on the horizon, this time at the youth level. Jamshedpur FC Reserves are all set to take on Mohun Bagan Super Giant Reserves in the semifinal of the Reliance Foundation Development League (RFDL) 2024-25 on April 10th, in what promises to be a high-stakes battle between two of Indian football’s most promising youth setups.
Head coach Kaizad Ambapardiwalla, who has led a spirited young JFC side to Group A Champions in the National Group Stage, reflected on the team’s journey ahead of the crucial clash.
“I’m extremely proud of the boys. We started this journey with a very young squad and each match has been a learning experience,” Kaizad said. “The character, work ethic, and belief they’ve shown have been incredible. To top the group and reach the semifinal is a testament to their hunger and discipline.”
The reserves have earned widespread praise for their exciting, attacking brand of football, having netted 13 goals in five matches. But against a strong Mohun Bagan outfit, JFC are approaching the semifinal with tactical awareness.
“Mohun Bagan are a quality team with good depth and experience,” Kaizad added. “It’s going to be a high-intensity game, and we’ll need to be at our best tactically and mentally. We respect them, but we’re focused on our strengths.”
While continuing with their attacking identity, Kaizad emphasized the need for balance in a knockout setting. “We are aware that knockout games require smart game management. So, we’ll strike the right balance between attacking intent and defensive discipline,” he explained.
The young Men of Steel have seen breakout and Kaizad believes that the eagerness to learn is driving them forward. “Their attitude has been top-class. Every single one of them has been receptive to feedback, eager to improve, and ready to take responsibility on the pitch. They don’t play like boys, they play like men with a point to prove.”
His final message to the squad ahead of the semifinal was simple but powerful: “Enjoy the moment, stay humble, and give everything. Matches like these are what we train for, and I want them to take the field with courage and confidence. No matter the result, if they give their all, they’ll make everyone at Jamshedpur FC proud.”
With a spot in the RFDL National Championship Final on the line, the clash between Jamshedpur FC Reserves and Mohun Bagan Super Giant Reserves is shaping up to be a thrilling contest. The matches will be live on rfyouthsports youtube page.
