Jamshedpur FC defeated Shillong Lajong 2-0 on Saturday, January 20, 2024, to close out the Kalinga Super Cup group stage with a perfect record. Having already guaranteed their place in the semi-finals, Khalid Jamil’s team will play East Bengal, the winners of Group A, on January 24.
Group B Encounter:
For much of the first half, the match against Shillong Lajong, the final group stage match, lived up to its moniker as a “dead rubber”. Aware of their season’s remaining games, both sides started inexperienced players and newcomers, which made for a cautious and controlled game. Despite Lajong’s popularity in the I-League, Jamshedpur dominated possession, making it difficult for them to take the lead. There were few opportunities to score goals in the first half, with the best ones coming just one minute apart.
Taking on the Lajong defense, Seiminlen Doungel showed off his individual skill by cutting to his left and launching a forceful 25-yard shot. But Lajong was replaced by goalkeeper Bishal Lama, who successfully parried the ball to safety. Shortly after, Muhammad Uvais’ cross gave Thongkhosiem Haokip a clear opportunity, but the forward’s attempt inside the six-yard box went excruciatingly wide.
Half-Time Drama:
Just before halftime, Jamshedpur broke the tie, and Haokip was a key player in it. Haokip deftly controlled a hopeful ball that Jitendra Singh deposited into the box. Haokip drew the defender to him and then deftly passed the ball to Sanan Mohammed K, who scored for Jamshedpur with a confident blast into the net.
Semi-Final Showdown:
Jamshedpur FC, who won all of their group matches, now turns its attention to facing Group A winners East Bengal in the semi-final. Two strong teams battling for a spot in the Kalinga Super Cup final are expected to engage in an exciting matchup. In order to build on their strong performance thus far in the tournament, Khalid Jamil and his team will try to maintain their momentum.
Conclusion:
Jamshedpur FC’s excellent form and strategic acumen are demonstrated by their flawless performance in the Kalinga Super Cup group stage. Combining seasoned players with up-and-coming talent has worked wonders for the team. Football fans can anticipate a thrilling and hotly contested match as they prepare for their semi-final matchup against East Bengal, which will surely add to the tournament’s legacy. Jamshedpur FC is a strong competitor, and both fans and analysts are enthralled with their Kalinga Super Cup journey.
Jamshedpur FC Starting XI
Vishal Yadav (GK), PC Laldinpuia, Muirang, Muhhamed Uvais, Saphaba Telem, Jitendra SIngh, Len Doungel (C), Nongdamba, Sanan, Imran Khan, Semboi Haokip
Shillong Lajong Starting XI
Bishal (GK), Saveme, Daniel, Ronney, Kynsai Khongsit, Renan (C), Hame, Wadajied, Sangti, Pursunep, Douglas
