Jamshedpur FC eye second win vs Punjab in ISL

After a 1-0 win against Mohammedan SC in their season opener, Jamshedpur FC will hope to continue the good show in their second game of Indian Super League (ISL) against Punjab FC at JRD Tata Sports Complex in Jamshedpur on Saturday.
Jamshedpur, who made it to the semifinals during the 2024-25 season, bagged the win thanks to a solitary goal from Madih Talal. But head coach Owen Coyle wants better showing from the forwards in the coming match and he underlined the need for sharper finishing during the pre-match press conference on Friday.
“We created some good goalscoring opportunities that should have resulted in more goals. We must be more clinical and take a better percentage of our chances,” said the coach.
At the back, much will depend on the composure and leadership of skipper Steven Eze. The Nigerian centre-back led the team from the back in the opener, guiding the Men of Steel to keep a clean sheet with a disciplined defensive display.
“We don’t dwell on mistakes. We push each other and give 100 percent from the first minute. With the fans behind us, we fight for every ball,” Eze said.
Punjab FC, meanwhile, will kick off their season on Saturday after their opening fixture was postponed, making them a fresh and potentially dangerous opponent. And Coyle is aware of the challenge. “Punjab are a very good side. They have signed some very good players and have terrific young Indian talents. They have pace and are dangerous in attack,” he added.


The head-to-head record however offers encouragement. Last season, Jamshedpur completed a double over Punjab FC with two 2-1 victories. However, Punjab have reshaped their squad this year, bringing in fresh faces and adding depth. Former JFC left-back Mohammed Uvais now lines up for Punjab. But with a near sell-out crowd expected at the Furnace, Jamshedpur will look to ride the energy of their home support in what promises to be an intense encounter.