In an exclusive interview with the Jamshedpur FC media team, captain Javi Hernandez spoke about the team's resilience, the challenge ahead, and the unwavering support of Jamshedpur FC's passionate fans.
As captain, how are you leading the team's resurgence ahead of this massive playoff, ensuring Jamshedpur FC fights back stronger than ever?
"We know how much this game means—not just to us but to everyone who supports Jamshedpur FC. The last couple of matches didn’t go our way, but that’s in the past. Right now, we are fully focused, prepared, and determined to give everything on the pitch. This is our moment to show our strength, and we are ready to fight for our place in the semifinals."
Despite setbacks, Jamshedpur FC has shown immense character throughout the season. How determined is the squad to rewrite the script against NorthEast United?
"Every team faces challenges in a season, but what defines us is how we respond. One of our biggest strengths has been our ability to come back from difficult situations. We have fought hard in so many games, and we take pride in that resilience. This match is another opportunity to show our true character, to prove that we belong at the top. We are ready to give our all and finish this season on a high."
The team has worked hard to overcome its away form struggles. How confident are you that Jamshedpur FC will rise to the occasion and deliver a statement victory in Shillong?
"These are the kind of games every player dream of playing—high stakes, high intensity. We know Shillong is a tough place, and NorthEast United has beaten us twice this season, but that only fuels our hunger to turn things around. We have been training hard, preparing every detail, and building our confidence. We believe in ourselves, and we are ready to make a statement."
Under Khalid Jamil, Jamshedpur FC has been known for never backing down. How crucial will that fearless mentality be in this high-stakes playoff battle?
"That never-give-up mentality is part of who we are. Under Khalid sir, we have always fought till the last whistle, and we have shown time and again that we can come back from any situation. No matter what happens in the game, we will keep pushing, keep attacking, and keep believing. That mindset will be crucial in a playoff like this, and we are ready to give it everything we have."
The fans have stood by the team through every high and low. What message do you have for them as Jamshedpur FC prepares to take one step closer to the title?
"Our fans have been with us through every moment, through every win and loss. Now, in the most important match of the season, we need them more than ever. Their support gives us strength, their energy drives us forward. We promise to give our best on the pitch and fight for them. We want to make them proud and give them the joy they deserve. We need them behind us, pushing us all the way to victory."
