The Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season continues to thrill as East Bengal FC and Jamshedpur FC prepare to face off in a high-stakes encounter on October 5, at the JRD Tata Sports Complex.
With both sides looking to make a statement, the clash promises to be an intriguing contest between a resilient Jamshedpur side and an East Bengal team desperate to turn their fortunes around.
Jamshedpur FC vs East Bengal FC: Match Preview
Jamshedpur FC, under the guidance of Khalid Jamil, have been in fine form this season. With six points from three matches, the Men of Steel currently sit third on the table. They have a solid track record against East Bengal, having remained unbeaten in their last three encounters. Their most recent victory came in February 2024, when they edged out the Red and Gold Brigade 2-1. However, Jamshedpur have never managed to win back-to-back games against East Bengal in the ISL, a record they will look to break in this fixture.
Jamshedpur’s coach Khalid Jamil is fully aware of the challenge at hand but remains confident in his side’s ability to deliver. Speaking ahead of the match, he said, “Every match is an opportunity to grow, and we are ready to give our best effort to secure a positive result.” The coach will be expecting a response from his side after their recent loss to Odisha FC, and the team will undoubtedly be fired up to continue their strong start to the season.
East Bengal FC’s Struggle on the Road
East Bengal FC, on the other hand, have had a rough start to the 2024-25 campaign. Currently bottom of the table, they have lost all three of their matches and will be looking to finally get off the mark under interim head coach Bino George. The Kolkata giants have struggled particularly on the road, with only two away victories since the beginning of the 2023-24 season. They have also lost their last three away games, which makes their upcoming trip to Jamshedpur all the more crucial.
Despite their recent struggles, there is a glimmer of hope for East Bengal. The Red and Gold Brigade secured a memorable 3-1 victory in Jamshedpur in November 2022, one of their two away wins at the JRD Tata Sports Complex. Bino George, who has taken over from Carles Cuadrat, remains optimistic about his team’s prospects. “I have full faith in our players and their quality,” he said ahead of the clash. “We are a good team and have confidence. We have a style of play and will follow that.”
“They have been working very hard, and I know the boys can come back stronger.” Despite the challenging start, George remains optimistic about turning the tide.
Jamshedpur FC Looking to Rebound After Setback
Although Jamshedpur FC has had a positive start to their season, their most recent match saw them falter against Odisha FC. Head coach Khalid Jamil is determined to get his side back on track. Reflecting on the loss, Jamil said, “Our last game was not up to the mark. We will rectify ourselves and give our best.” The former East Bengal coach is fully focused on preparing his team and believes that every match is an opportunity for growth.
Jamil also emphasized the importance of maintaining momentum, stating, “Facing East Bengal will be another important challenge, but my focus is on preparing the team to secure a positive result.”
Key Players to Watch
Jordan Murray (Jamshedpur FC)
For Jamshedpur FC, forward Jordan Murray will be a pivotal figure. Murray has contested over 10 duels in each of his last six ISL appearances, showcasing his relentless work rate and battling spirit.
His ability to influence the game in key moments will be vital as Jamshedpur looks to capitalize on their home advantage.
Javi Hernandez (Jamshedpur FC)
Javi Hernandez was unstoppable in his previous home match for Jamshedpur FC, where his two goals secured a significant victory over Mumbai City FC. The Spaniard will look to replicate that performance against East Bengal, targeting key attacking areas to heighten his team’s goal-scoring threat. His composed and intelligent play has already brought stability to Jamshedpur’s midfield, creating several opportunities each game.
Known for his creativity, particularly from set-pieces, Javi will aim to showcase his precision by delivering pinpoint passes into the final third. His playmaking ability could be crucial in breaking down East Bengal’s defense, much like Borja Herrera did in their last encounter.
Cleiton Silva (East Bengal)
Meanwhile, East Bengal will rely heavily on their captain Cleiton Silva. Silva is the top scorer in this fixture’s history, with three goals to his name. However, the Brazilian forward has been out of form in recent times, failing to register a goal contribution in his last four ISL outings. East Bengal will need Silva to rediscover his scoring touch if they are to break down Jamshedpur’s defense.
Debjit Majumder (East Bengal)
In goal, East Bengal’s Debjit Majumder has been a busy figure. The goalkeeper has averaged 3.4 saves per game this season, the highest among goalkeepers with at least five appearances. Despite this impressive tally, Majumder has managed just three clean sheets, indicating that the defense in front of him has been leaky. Majumder’s shot-stopping ability will be crucial in keeping Jamshedpur at bay.
Jamshedpur FC vs East Bengal: Head-to-Head
The two teams have faced each other eight times in the ISL, with Jamshedpur FC holding the upper hand. The Men of Steel have secured three victories, while East Bengal has won twice. Three of their encounters have ended in a draw, highlighting the competitive nature of this fixture. Given East Bengal’s current struggles and Jamshedpur’s form, the upcoming game could further tip the balance in favor of the hosts.
- Total Matches Played – 8
- Jamshedpur FC wins – 3
- East Bengal wins – 2
- Draws – 3
Jamshedpur FC vs East Bengal: Team News
Jamshedpur FC
Jamshedpur FC is expected to have a fully fit squad available for this home fixture.
East Bengal
East Bengal faces injury concerns, with Dimitrios Diamantakos, Nishu Kumar, Saul Crespo, and Provat Lakra all doubtful for the upcoming match.
Jamshedpur FC vs East Bengal: Predicted Lineups
Jamshedpur FC (4-4-1-1)
- Goalkeeper – Albino Gomes
- Defenders – Ashutosh Mehta, Pratik Chaudhari, Stephen Eze, Muhammad Uvais
- Midfielders – Imran Khan, Mobhashir Rahman, Javi Hernandez, Mohammed Sanan
- Forwards – Jordan Murray, Javier Siverio
East Bengal (4-2-3-1)
- Goalkeeper – Debjit Majumder
- Defenders – Mohammad Rakip, Anwar Ali, Hector Yuste, Mark Zothanpuia
- Midfielders – Jeakson Singh, Saul Crespo, Madih Talal
- Forwards – PV Vishnu, Nandhakumar Sekar, Cleiton Silva
Jamshedpur FC vs East Bengal: Prediction
As East Bengal FC heads into this match, the team will be desperate for a positive result to halt their early-season slump. For Jamshedpur FC, maintaining their unbeaten run and bouncing back from their recent defeat will be key to solidifying their position near the top of the table. Both sides have plenty at stake, and this encounter promises to be a fiercely contested battle.
Whether Jamshedpur FC continues their dominance or East Bengal begins a much-needed resurgence will be the story to watch as the ISL 2024-25 season heats up.
Prediction – Jamshedpur FC 1-1 East Bengal
When and Where to Watch the Match? Broadcast and Streaming Details
The Jamshedpur FC vs East Bengal clash is scheduled for Saturday, 5 October, at the JRD Tata Sports Complex in Jamshedpur, with a 5:00 PM IST kickoff. Fans can watch the game live on Sports 18, while streaming will be available on Jio Cinema and Jio TV. International viewers can tune in via the One Football app.
Read More: ISL 2024/25: Hyderabad FC Strengthen Defense with Serbian Centre-Half Stefan Sapic Signing
When is the Jamshedpur FC vs East Bengal match?
The Jamshedpur FC vs East Bengal clash is scheduled for Saturday, 5 October, at the JRD Tata Sports Complex in Jamshedpur, with a 5:00 PM IST kickoff.
