Jamshedpur FC defeated Punjab FC 2-1 in their Indian Super League 2024-25 match at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Delhi on Tuesday. With this victory, they moved to third place in the standings with 31 points from 17 matches. They now trail second-placed FC Goa by just two points.
Chaudhuri and Hernandez Score for Jamshedpur
Jamshedpur FC took the lead in the 41st minute when Pratik Chaudhuri headed in a goal. Shortly after halftime, Javi Hernandez doubled their advantage. Meanwhile, Punjab FC fought hard but could only manage a consolation goal through Ezequiel Vidal. As a result, the loss extended Punjab FC’s winless streak to seven games this season.
Punjab FC Starts Strong
Right from the start, the home team played aggressively, putting Jamshedpur FC’s defense under pressure. Consequently, they created the first real chance in the eighth minute when Luka Majcen connected with a cross from Muhammad Suhail. However, goalkeeper Albino Gomes denied him with a crucial save.
On the other hand, Jamshedpur FC slowly found their rhythm. Javier Siverio and Mohammed Sanan linked up well in attack. They primarily focused on the left flank but struggled to break through Punjab FC’s defense. Eventually, Ricky Shabong had a great chance in the 21st minute but failed to beat Albino Gomes.
Chaudhuri Scores Against the Run of Play
Despite Punjab FC’s dominance, Jamshedpur FC struck first. In the 41st minute, Pratik Chaudhuri rose above everyone to head in Rei Tachikawa’s corner. Thus, Jamshedpur FC took the lead.
Punjab FC responded immediately. Suljic and Abhishek Meetei took shots on target but couldn’t find the equalizer before halftime.
Hernandez Doubles the Lead
At the start of the second half, Punjab FC made a substitution, bringing in Ezequiel Vidal. However, an error soon gifted Jamshedpur FC their second goal. In the 48th minute, Javi Hernandez pressed high, forcing Muheet Shabir into a hurried clearance. Unfortunately for Punjab FC, the ball bounced off Hernandez and into the net.
Vidal Pulls One Back
Determined to fight back, Punjab FC finally scored in the 58th minute. Ezequiel Vidal struck from long range, curling the ball past Pratik Chaudhuri into the bottom right corner. Notably, this was the 10th goal Jamshedpur FC conceded from outside the box this season.
Punjab FC Pushes for an Equalizer
In response, Coach Panagiotis Dilmperis made attacking changes, introducing Petros Giakoumakis and Leon Augustine. Meanwhile, both teams made further substitutions to bring fresh energy into the match. Although Punjab FC pressed hard for an equalizer, Jamshedpur FC held firm.
Defensive Changes Secure Victory
As the match entered its final phase, Khalid Jamil made a crucial defensive move in the 80th minute by bringing on Stephen Eze. Punjab FC had a golden chance in the 85th minute when Leon Augustine received a loose ball at the edge of the box. However, his shot lacked power, allowing Pratik Chaudhuri to clear it away.
Despite trying different tactics, Punjab FC could not break Jamshedpur FC’s solid defense. Ultimately, the visitors secured their 10th win of the season, while Punjab FC continued their search for a winning formula.
