Jamshedpur FC Triumphs Over Indian Army FT in Durand Cup Clash
Jamshedpur FC Secures Victory in Durand Cup
Jamshedpur (Jharkhand) [India], July 29: A decisive second-half goal from Sanan Mohammed propelled Jamshedpur FC to a 1-0 win against Indian Army FT during their match in Group C of the 134th Durand Cup, held at the JRD Tata Sports Complex.
This victory places Jamshedpur FC at the top of their group with six points from two matches, bringing them closer to advancing to the knockout rounds.
Head Coach Khalid Jamil made strategic adjustments to the starting lineup, introducing Karthik Choudhary and Sourav Das, who replaced Sarthak Goloui and Lalhriatpuia Chawngthu. Meanwhile, Indian Army's Coach Manish Wahi opted for an experienced squad in a 4-3-3 formation, featuring Rahul Ramakrishnan, Liton Shil, Shubham Rana, and Samir Murmu, who made his debut for Jamshedpur FC in the ISL last season.
The first half saw Indian Army dominating play, controlling possession and creating more scoring opportunities. They nearly took an early lead, but Samir Murmu's shot from a tight angle went wide, and shortly after, Samananda Singh missed a header from a corner.
Jamshedpur FC found it challenging to contend with the Army's physical play, as Lethaolen Khongsai and P. Christopher Kamei effectively managed the midfield. Samir Murmu came close again, capitalizing on a weak header back to the goalkeeper, but his shot was thwarted by Amrit Gope.
On the offensive end, Jamshedpur attempted to penetrate the Indian Army defense using long balls and throw-ins, but with limited success. Amrit Gope made a crucial fingertip save to deny Army captain B. Sunil just before halftime, keeping the score level.
At the start of the second half, Khalid Jamil made two substitutions, bringing in VP Suhair and Nikhil Barla to enhance the team's attacking vigor. Jamshedpur FC broke the deadlock in the 52nd minute, following a long throw that Karthik Choudhary headed back into the danger zone, allowing Sanan Mohammed to chest the ball down and finish past the diving Sayad Bin Abdul Kadir.
After taking the lead, Jamshedpur FC maintained better control of the match, despite Indian Army having more possession and attempts on goal. However, they struggled to test the goalkeeper, with Liton Shil's long-range shot hitting the crossbar late in the game.
The match concluded with drama as Indian Army's goalkeeper Sayad Bin Abdul Kadir was sent off for a foul on Jayesh Rane outside the box, after Rane broke free towards goal. Defender Samananda Singh took over goalkeeping duties for the final moments as the Army pressed for an equalizer. In the dying minutes, V.P Suhair also struck the crossbar, but Jamshedpur FC held on to secure a hard-fought three points.
All 43 matches of the 134th Durand Cup will be broadcast live on the Sony Sports Network (Sony Ten2 HD) and streamed on the SonyLiv OTT platform.