A team that boasted one of the strongest attacking units on paper has so far failed to match the expectations bestowed upon them. A winless FC Pune City welcome Jamshedpur FC to their backyard today in what is building up to be an important clash for both the sides.
The hosts will be itching to wake up from their deep slumber whereas Jamshedpur FC will be looking to continue their unbeaten run and climb up the league ladder. Cesar Ferrando's men have so far been impressive on the road and against a struggling side, Jamshedpur FC are being labelled as the early favourites.
But FC Pune City must be seething at the moment because of their poor form and a team having a plethora of talent such as them can never be discounted. The Stallions have also been strengthened by the return of Marcelinho who returns into the fray after serving his suspension. Adil Khan is also fit enough to start today who will play a crucial role in Pune's midfield.
Earlier this week, Emiliano Alfaro joined ATK on a loan deal which paved the way for Iain Hume to join FC Pune City for the remainder of the season. Hume is expected to play a part tonight and it is safe to say that the Canadian can play a huge role in bringing FC Pune City back on track. The league's record goalscorer can prove to be the X-factor for Pune today and Jamshedpur FC's defence will have to be alert to deny him space in the box.
One strength that FC Pune City possess is their talent on the flanks. The likes of Diego Carlos, Ashique, Poojari and Marcelinho can all prove to be tricky to handle for Jamshedpur FC's fullbacks. The visitors have had issues with their wide defenders as lapses of concentration have hurt Jamshedpur FC with goals against the run of play. The battle between Jamshedpur FC's fullbacks and FC Pune City's wingers may well decide the outcome of the match.
Meanwhile, the Stallions' defence has so far shipped in 16 goals and against a side that has scored the second highest goals in the season so far, Pradyum Reddy's men may be in for a long night if they don't sort out their defensive issues.
All in all, tonight's clash in Pune promises to be an exciting affair with one side looking to make a statement for the first time this season while the other looking for redemption for the past season's losses.
