PINAKI MAJUMDAR
Jamshedpur, Jan 29: Pratik Chaudhari and Javi Hernandez delivered decisive goals to lead Jamshedpur FC to a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Punjab FC in an Indian Super League clash at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Tuesday evening.
With this crucial win, Jamshedpur FC climbed to third position on the table with 31 points, narrowing the gap with second-placed FC Goa, who have 33 points. With the win, the Men of Steel now look well-placed to continue their push for a top-three finish.
Strong defensive setup and early attacks
Jamshedpur FC started the game with an attacking mindset, with Javi Hernandez coming close early on as his effort aimed for the far post narrowly missed. Despite allowing Punjab FC to dominate possession, Jamshedpur maintained a safe, disciplined approach, and was defensively well-organized.
Jamshedpur FC goalkeeper Albino Gomes played a crucial role in parring away Punjab FC attacks as he made at least three saves before Pratik struck a beautiful header goal to give the visitors the lead.
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Chaudhari opens scoring, Hernandez extends lead, Punjab fights back
The breakthrough came in the 41st minute when Pratik Chaudhari rose above the Punjab defence to meet Rei Tachikawa’s perfectly delivered corner, heading the visitors into the lead.
Just minutes into the second half, Javi Hernandez doubled the advantage in an opportunistic moment, intercepting a clearance attempt by the Punjab goalkeeper and guiding the ball into the net.
Punjab FC responded in the 58th minute through a moment of brilliance from Norberto Ezequiel Vidal, who curled a stunning shot from outside the box past a diving Albino Gomes. Gomes, however, stood tall for the rest of the match with a string of critical saves.
Jamshedpur stands firm as Punjab pushes for equalizer
As Punjab pushed aggressively for an equalizer, Jamshedpur’s defence remained resolute. In the 90th minute, Jamshedpur had an opportunity to extend their lead, but Pronay Halder’s right-footed shot from outside the box went narrowly wide after being set up by Javi Siverio.
Jamshedpur FC will now return home to face FC Goa at the JRD Tata Sports Complex on February 2, a crucial match that could significantly influence the battle for the top three spots.
