Khalid Jamil eyes sealing ISL playoffs spot with a win over Mohammedan SC

Jamshedpur FC are coming after two consecutive defeats in ISL.

Khalid Jamil’s Jamshedpur FC, once strong contenders for the ISL Shield alongside Mohun Bagan and FC Goa, now find themselves battling to secure a top-six finish. With only four games remaining, three of which are away fixtures, Khalid Jamil’s side faces an uphill task, especially given their underwhelming performances on the road this season.

However, their ambitions remain high, as they aim to leapfrog second-placed FC Goa and clinch a direct semifinal berth. Ahead of their crucial clash against the Black Panthers in Kolkata, head coach Khalid Jamil and defender Shubham Sarangi addressed the media, shedding light on the team’s preparations and hinting at potential tactical adjustments for the high-stakes encounter.

It's time to Steel the show!🔥 The Men of Steel face a make-or-break match against Mohammedan SC! Let's go, boys! 💥 #JamKeKhelo #IndianSuperLeague #ISL #Football #MenOfSteel #Jamshedpur #MSCJFC pic.twitter.com/jHwqf2yRDD

— Jamshedpur FC (@JamshedpurFC) February 20, 2025

On the team’s preparations

Khalid Jamil emphasized the importance of full preparation and unwavering focus ahead of their crucial clash, stating that every player must step up and take responsibility at the right moment, especially with their hopes of a top-two finish still alive. He acknowledged the significance of the upcoming match, stressing that the team needs to give everything on the pitch to stage a strong comeback.

He said, “We must be fully prepared and focused on our game. Every player needs to step up, fight, and make the right decisions at the right moments. This is an important match for us, and we have to give everything on the pitch to bounce back strongly.”

Jamil’s side failed to secure a solitary point in Kolkata this season.

Khalid Jamil emphasized the need for discipline and intent as Jamshedpur FC prepares to face Mohammedan Sporting Club in Kolkata. He stressed that executing the game plan effectively would be crucial in securing all three points. Acknowledging the team’s underwhelming away form, Jamil expressed his determination to change their fortunes in Kolkata, where they have failed to secure a single point in their last two visits. With this being their final trip to the city in the regular season, he aims to overturn that record and strengthen their position in the league.

He said, “As I said, this is a crucial game. The players must take responsibility and fight for every ball. We need to stay disciplined, play with intent, and execute our game plan effectively.”

Sarangi on the competition for a spot in the playing XI

Shubham Sarangi welcomed the strong competition within Jamshedpur FC, emphasizing that it brings out the best in every player. He believes that such a competitive environment pushes individuals to perform at their highest level while reinforcing the importance of prioritizing the team’s objectives over personal ambitions. Sarangi assured that whenever given an opportunity, he remains fully committed to delivering his best for the team’s success.

He said, “It’s always good to have strong competition for places in the team. It pushes each of us to bring out our best. I make sure to give my all in every training session, and whenever I get the opportunity to play, my goal is always to deliver my best for the team.”

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