By Our Reporter
Shillong, March 30: Jamshedpur FC booked their place in the semi-finals of the Indian Super League (ISL) with a commanding 2-0 victory over NorthEast United FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong on Sunday.
The win sets up a last-four clash with League Shield winners Mohun Bagan Super Giant, while the Highlanders’ campaign comes to an end. Notably, this victory marked Jamshedpur FC’s fifth away win of the season, their best-ever tally in any ISL campaign.
The visitors broke the deadlock in their trademark fashion, capitalizing on a long throw-in from Ashutosh Mehta.
The delivery found its way to Stephen Eze inside the box, and the towering defender showcased quick footwork before firing a powerful strike from a tight angle on the right into the top left corner in the 29th minute.Youngster Mohammed Sanan nearly doubled the lead eight minutes later with a long-range effort, but his attempt veered just wide of the post.
NorthEast United FC came close to an equalizer early in the second half when Buanthanglun Samte launched a looping long ball from near the halfway line, forcing a timely save from Jamshedpur’s goalkeeper Albino Gomes.
Samte then turned provider, delivering a curling cross for Macarton Nickson, whose layoff set up Jithin MS. However, Jithin’s effort failed to trouble the goal.
Jamshedpur FC pressed for a second goal to seal the win, with Jordan Murray creating a golden opportunity in the 83rd minute.
The forward beat Asheer Akhtar in a one-on-one duel on the right flank before whipping in a dangerous cross for Javi Siverio, but the Spaniard’s shot sailed just over the crossbar.The Red Miners were dealt a late blow when Mobashir Rahman received a red card in the 88th minute following a reckless challenge. However, they put the game beyond doubt in stoppage time.