Jamshedpur FC vs Odisha FC lineups, team news, prediction & preview

The Juggernauts are mathematically still alive in the competition.

As the Steel City gleams with festive grandeur, adorned like a bride to honour the birth anniversary of its visionary founder, JN Tata, the atmosphere at JRD Tata Sports Complex is expected to be nothing short of electric. The home of Jamshedpur FC is set to witness a thrilling showdown as they lock horns with Odisha FC in their final home fixture of the regular season. With the playoffs secured, the Men of Steel are eager to cap off their league campaign on a high, adding another chapter of triumph to their jubilant celebrations.

On the other hand, Odisha FC approaches this Eastern Derby with fierce determination, eyeing a full three points in their last league game of the season. The stakes are high, the tension palpable, and the rivalry intense, all setting the stage for a captivating clash. As both teams brace for battle, fans can expect an enthralling contest under the glowing lights of Jamshedpur, where pride, passion, and playoff momentum intertwine in a footballing spectacle.

The Stakes

Jamshedpur FC

Jamshedpur FC have etched their name into the playoffs for only the second time in their ISL history, sparking an air of jubilation among the ever-passionate fans of the Steel City. As they gear up for their final home game of the regular season at the iconic JRD Tata Sports Complex, the Men of Steel will be eager to put on an entertaining display of football, giving their supporters a night to remember. More than just a celebration, the team will have their eyes firmly set on breaking into the top four, granting them the advantage of hosting their knockout playoff clash on home turf. With just a single point needed from their remaining two fixtures to secure that coveted spot, the stakes could not be higher.

Khalid Jamil, known for his tactical acumen, is expected to rotate his squad, offering a platform for young talents and bench players with limited opportunities this season. This strategic move keeps the core squad fresh and injects raw energy and unpredictability into their gameplay. The looming face-off against Odisha FC promises to be a thrilling contest where ambition meets opportunity, and Jamshedpur FC will be keen to end their home campaign on a high. All eyes now turn to the Eastern Derby, where every pass, tackle, and goal will shape their playoff journey.

Odisha FC

Odisha FC still have a glimmer of hope to secure a spot in the top six, keeping their playoff dreams mathematically alive. To do so, they must clinch a crucial victory over Jamshedpur FC in their upcoming clash, a result that would temporarily lift them into the coveted sixth position. However, their fate does not rest solely in their hands; they will also hope for a double setback for Mumbai City FC, praying the Islanders lose their remaining fixtures. Odisha FC and Mumbai City FC will be levelled on points if this scenario unfolds, leaving goal difference as the decisive factor. In this battle, Odisha currently holds the upper hand.

With so much at stake, Odisha FC will approach their final league game with fierce determination, aware that this is their last shot at salvaging their season. The pressure of relying on external results will fuel their hunger to dominate Jamshedpur FC and raise a substantial goal margin, further solidifying their advantage in the goal-difference race. As the Eastern Derby looms, Odisha FC fights for three points and clings to the thin thread of hope, where fortune must favour the brave if they are to sneak into the playoffs.

Team & Injury News

Head-to-head

Total Matches – 15

Jamshedpur FC wins – 08

Odisha FC wins – 05

Draws – 02

Predicted Lineups

Jamshedpur FC (4-3-3) 

Albino Gomes (GK); Nikhil Barla, Pratik Chaudhari, Stephen Eze, Md Uvais; Lazar Cirkovic, Sourav Das, Javi Hernandez; Imran Khan, Javier Siverio, Md Sanan

Odisha FC (4-3-3)

Amrinder Singh (GK), Rahim Ali, Mourtada Fall, Carlos Delgado, Jerry Lalrinzuala, Ahmed Jahouh, Lalthathanga Khawlhring, Jerry Mawihmingthanga, Hugo Boumous, Isak Vanlalruatfela, Dorielton

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Players to watch

Ritwik Das (Jamshedpur FC)

During Jamshedpur FC’s historic 2021-22 season, when they clinched the League Winners’ Shield and made their first-ever playoffs appearance, Ritwik Das was undeniably one of the most crucial players in their success story. His flair, work rate, and ability to deliver in clutch moments made him a standout performer, playing a key role in propelling the team to glory. However, the following two seasons saw both Ritwik and Jamshedpur FC struggle. Pounded by injuries, inconsistency, and a dip in form, the club veered off the path of success.

As Jamshedpur FC have now bounced back from two disappointing campaigns, Ritwik Das is still grappling with fitness concerns, limiting his game time this season. However, he made a statement every time he stepped onto the pitch — most recently scoring a vital goal against Mohammedan Sporting Club. With the playoffs looming, fans and the club alike hope Ritwik finds his rhythm and continues his exemplary form, potentially becoming a game-changer during the knockout stages.

Hugo Boumous (Odisha FC)

Despite Odisha FC’s derailed and underwhelming campaign this season, one shining beacon of hope has been the exceptional form of Hugo Boumous. In a season where experienced stalwarts like Ahmed Jahouh and Mourtada Fall have struggled to make an impact, and injuries to key players like Roy Krishna have hampered the team’s progress, Boumous has emerged as the driving force. His relentless performances and ability to single-handedly turn games around have kept Odisha FC’s faint playoff hopes alive, showcasing his class and determination.

Hugo Boumous’ debut season for Odisha FC has been remarkable, as he has consistently played at his optimum level, refusing to let the team’s setbacks dull his spark. With the crucial clash against Jamshedpur FC on the horizon, Boumous will again look to inspire his side, pushing for a vital victory that could edge them closer to the top six. As Odisha FC prepares for one final roll of the dice, Boumous’s brilliance could be the key to keeping their playoff dreams alive.

Did you know

• Jamshedpur FC have already qualified for the ISL Playoffs.
• Odisha won the reverse fixture against Jamshedpur in ISL
• Both teams are coming after a draw in their previous match.

Telecast Details

The 2024-25 Indian Super League match between Jamshedpur FC and Odisha FC will occur at the JRD Tata Sports Complex on Wednesday (5 March).

It will kick off at 7:30 PM IST. The match will be shown live on Sports 18 and available for streaming on Jio Hotstar. International viewers can also watch the match on the OneFootball app.

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