Preview: Buoyant Jamshedpur FC take on high-flying Odisha FC

Striker Jordan Murray is set to miss yet another match for the Men of Steel.

It is a battle between two teams in the top four as Odisha FC take on Jamshedpur FC on Tuesday. Odisha are currently second in the points table, with nine points from four games. Their opponents, on the other hand, occupy the fourth position with seven points from five matches.

The Stakes

Odisha FC

Following their 1-0 win against NorthEast United, Odisha have now won three of their four matches. Their only defeat came against Kerala Blasters. The Juggernauts have been in fine form at the beginning of the season, scoring 11 goals in four matches, second-highest in the league. This is their best start to any season. Odisha FC would like to carry on this momentum, as they would look to add another three points in their next game against Jamshedpur FC.

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Jamshedpur FC

Jamshedpur, on the other hand, come into this match on the back of a 4-2 defeat against defending champions Mumbai City. The defeat was their first of the season. The Man of Steel have two wins and two draws from their opening five games. The club from Jharkhand would like to bounce back from the setback in the last match, by winning the three points and solidifying their spot in the top four.

Team News

Except for defender Hector Rodas who is doubtful for the next match, Odisha head coach Kiko Ramirez will have a full squad to pick his starting XI from.

For Jamshedpur FC, Seiminlen Doungel and Jordan Murray are doubtful to start in the next game. Forward Farukh Choudhary is unfortunately out for the season.

Head-to-Head

The two sides have faced each other eight times, in which the Men Of Steel have come out victorious in five occasions. Odisha FC has won only once, while two of their matches ended in draws.

Last season the first fixture between them ended in a 2-2 draw followed by a 1-0 win for Jamshedpur FC in Odisha’s home match.

Probable lineups

Odisha FC (4-3-3): Kamaljit Singh (GK); Antonay, Mongil, Bora, Lalruatthara; Thoiba Singh, Hernandez, Rai; Mawihmingthanga, Jonathas de Jesus, Cabrera.

Jamshedpur FC (4-4-2): Rehenesh (GK); Renthlei, Sabia, Hartley, Ricky; Boris Singh, Jitendra Singh, Halder, Thatal; Stewart, Valskis.

Man To Watch

Vinit Rai (Odisha FC)

The 24-year-old midfielder has been in inspiring form this season. Vinit usually has the most passes completed in all of Odisha’s games. The midfielder has a passing accuracy of 82% this season. Most of Odisha’s attacks go through him, as he controls the game from midfield. 

If the Jamshedpur's midfield can keep the Indian quiet and prevent him from taking control of the game then they can gain a huge advantage in the match.

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Greg Stewart (Jamshedpur FC)

The former Rangers player has had a good start to life in the Indian Super League. The playmaker already has three assists so far this season and also has a goal to his name.

Easily the most creative player in the Jamshedpur lineup, the Men of Steel will look to the Scotsman to be the creative outlet in the game. The main problem of the Odisha defence would be to keep the playmaker quiet.

Did You Know?

• Odisha FC’s three wins so far this season means they have already won more matches this season than the whole of last campaign.
• Both Odisha FC and Jamshedpur FC have never managed to qualify for the playoffs.
• These two teams have never played out a goalless draw against each other.

Telecast

The clash between Odisha FC and Jamshedpur FC will take place on Tuesday, December 14. The kick-off will be at 7:30 pm (IST). The Star Sports Network will live telecast the game, while live streaming will be available on the Disney+Hotstar platform and the Jio TV app.

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