ISL: Khalid's Jamshedpur sink Mohammedan SC- Talking points

Jamshedpur FC continued their impressive Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 campaign with a commanding 2-0 win over Mohammedan SC at the Kishore Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata, on Thursday.

The victory saw them complete a league double over their opponents and move up to 37 points from 21 games, trailing second-placed FC Goa by just two points.

With the Gaurs having a game in hand, Jamshedpur FC needed this crucial victory to stay in the hunt for a higher finish in the league standings.

The Red Miners’ attacking intensity was on full display as they dominated possession and outshot their rivals, leading to well-deserved goals from Ritwik Das and Nikhil Barla.

Here are the five key talking points from the game:

#5 Jamshedpur FC’s early attacking intent

From the very first whistle, Jamshedpur FC asserted their dominance with aggressive forward play.

Their quick transition into attack saw them enter the Mohammedan SC penalty area within the first two minutes. Imran Khan was particularly instrumental in setting the tempo, as his early pass to Jordan Murray almost resulted in an opening goal.

The Red Miners kept pushing forward relentlessly, leaving the home side scrambling to contain their offensive movements.

Their high press and swift passing combinations ensured that Mohammedan SC remained on the back foot throughout the match.

#4 Ritwik Das opens the scoring

The breakthrough for Jamshedpur FC came as early as the sixth minute in a chaotic but effective sequence of play. Imran Khan, once again at the heart of the action, delivered a pinpoint cross to Jordan Murray, whose header was blocked inside the crowded box.

Javi Hernandez attempted a follow-up shot, but it was deflected, causing more confusion in the Mohammedan SC defense.

Eventually, Ritwik Das capitalized on the loose ball and slotted it into the bottom corner, ensuring Jamshedpur FC’s early dominance reflected on the scoreboard.

#3 Jamshedpur’s relentless midfield dominance

One of the standout features of Jamshedpur FC’s performance was their ability to control the midfield. Javi Hernandez, Javi Siverio, and Imran Khan orchestrated play with precision, ensuring that possession remained largely in their favor.

The visitors’ midfield trio repeatedly dissected Mohammedan SC’s defensive structure with sharp passing and intelligent movement.

This midfield control allowed Jamshedpur to dictate the pace of the game and launch consistent attacks without allowing their opponents to settle.

#2 Mohammedan SC’s defensive struggles

Mohammedan SC found themselves under immense pressure throughout the match due to Jamshedpur FC’s relentless attacking play. Their defense, led by Padam Chettri in goal, was forced into multiple last-ditch clearances and crucial saves.

Chettri, in particular, was called into action multiple times, notably denying Siverio’s powerful header in the 52nd minute.

However, their inability to clear their lines efficiently and a lack of cohesion in the defensive third ultimately led to their downfall.

#1 Nikhil Barla’s goal seals the win

Jamshedpur FC continued to probe for a second goal to put the game to bed, and they found it in the 82nd minute. Imran Khan, delivering yet another key pass, spotted Nikhil Barla in an advanced position on the right side of the box.

Barla displayed excellent composure to control the ball before unleashing a powerful strike into the high center of the net.

The goal not only sealed the three points but also highlighted Jamshedpur FC’s ability to involve multiple players in attacking contributions.

What next?

With a crucial fixture against Kerala Blasters FC on March 1, the Red Miners will be looking to maintain this momentum. Meanwhile, Mohammedan SC will need to regroup before their clash with Odisha FC on February 28.