Jamshedpur FC head coach Khalid Jamil anticipates a massive challenge as his team take on Mumbai City FC in their second match of Matchweek 13 of the Indian Super League (ISL) at the Mumbai Football Arena in Mumbai on Sunday.

Despite being able to secure only two wins in their last 13 ISL matches, the Red Miners have shown signs of positivity and development since the arrival of Jamil as their head coach. Jamil led the team to the semi-final of the Kalinga Super Cup, eventally suffering a defeat to East Bengal FC, the eventual winners. 

The Indian head coach is unbeaten against the Islanders in the ISL, but Mumbai City FC will present ample challenges as they have suffered a defeat in their last five home games.

Jamil had words of praise while speaking about his opponent’s strength and quality. He expects a highly challenging game against the Islanders, as he believes Mumbai City FC will be determined to exhibit a strong performance on their home turf.

“Certainly, Mumbai (City FC) is a formidable team. They're performing admirably with skilled foreign players,” Jamil stated in the pre-match press conference.

“Playing on their home ground, they exhibit a strong performance. Therefore, our upcoming match against them won't be straightforward. It's expected to be challenging. The entire team comprises talented individuals possessing versatility and skill. Both Indian and foreign players exhibit high quality. They are also making some changes in their lineup, necessitating our preparedness for the upcoming challenges,” he added.

Jamshedpur FC recently played out a 1-1 draw in their last home game against NorthEast United FC. Jamil seemed dissatisfied with the result, as he firmly believes it is necessary to secure all three points, especially while playing in front of their home crowd.

"We need to secure three points,” he said.

“Being our home ground, it's crucial to obtain those three points at any expense. The away match might pose some challenges, but with the home-ground advantage and support, aiming for three points is the optimal choice,” he continued.

The Red Miners have parted ways with forward Steve Ambri in the January transfer window. They have roped in 26-year-old Spanish forward Javier Siverio, who joins the club on loan from East Bengal FC. Speaking about their latest addition to their squad, Jamil beliees that Siverio still needs to understand their playing style and team's dynamics before making his debut for Jamshedpur FC.

“Indeed, he arrived yesterday (on Friday). Thus, he requires a minimum of three sessions before we consider giving him an opportunity to play,” he asserted.

“Undoubtedly, he stands among the top players. I am optimistic about integrating him into the team and hopeful that he will dedicate himself and contribute positively to the team's performance,” he concluded.

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Jamshedpur FCMumbai City FC2023-2024