East Bengal FC vs Jamshedpur FC: A Clash for Top Spot in ISL 2025-26
Exciting Matchup in Kolkata
On February 26, East Bengal FC is set to face Jamshedpur FC in a thrilling encounter at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata, with both teams eager to secure their third consecutive win in the Indian Super League 2025-26 season.
As per a statement from the league, East Bengal FC currently leads the standings after a decisive 4-1 victory over Sporting Club Delhi in their last match. The Red and Gold Brigade's success was marked by goals from Edmund Lalrindika, Miguel Figueira, and a double from Youssef Ezzejjari.
Both teams have accumulated six points from their first two matches, making this clash crucial as the victor will temporarily claim the top position in the league.
East Bengal's head coach, Oscar Bruzon, highlighted the importance of maintaining their winning streak while managing the expectations of their home crowd. He stated, “Our primary goal is to earn the three points, but we will adhere to our style of play and strive for peak performance. Jamshedpur is adept at transitions, poses a threat during set-pieces, and is well-structured, so we must remain focused and disciplined throughout the match.”
Midfielder Saul Crespo added, “They are a formidable opponent. We are familiar with some of their players and their capabilities. We also respect their coach. It will be a challenging match, but our team is confident this season. We have started strong and aim to maintain this momentum with our fans' support.”
Jamshedpur FC enters the match in fourth place, also with six points, but trailing East Bengal on goal difference. They recently achieved a narrow 1-0 victory against Punjab FC, thanks to a late goal from Vincy Barretto, marking their second consecutive clean sheet. They will look to maintain their defensive strength against a potent East Bengal attack.
Jamshedpur's head coach, Owen Coyle, acknowledged the significance of the home crowd for East Bengal and emphasized the need to convert their defensive solidity into points. He remarked, “This is a significant away game in Kolkata against a prestigious club with a rich history and substantial investment this season. Oscar Bruzon is a good friend and an excellent coach, but during the match, our focus will be solely on winning. They possess quality players, both Indian internationals and talented foreigners. We must perform at our best to compete and aim for three points.”
Coyle further noted, “It’s not just about scoring multiple goals; it’s about discipline, effort, and securing results. Our six points from two matches, along with two clean sheets, reflect the character and commitment of our team.”
Midfielder Pronay Halder expressed confidence in the team's morale, stating, “The atmosphere in our dressing room is very positive. We trust each other, believe in our coaching staff, and are united as a team. If we maintain this mentality and fighting spirit, we can achieve something remarkable this season.”
As East Bengal aims to control the game in front of their home supporters, Jamshedpur will focus on maintaining a compact formation and exploiting counter-attacks. With three vital points at stake, this match is set to be an exciting showdown.