Sports: Jamshedpur FC is poised to secure a spot in the Durand Cup quarter-finals, needing just a draw against 1 Ladakh FC today to top Group C. The Men of Steel have been in impressive form, registering wins over Tribhuvan Army FC (3-2) and Indian Army (1-0), and sit comfortably at the summit of their group.
A win, however, would be the preferred outcome for head coach Khalid Jamil, who is keen for his side to maintain their winning rhythm as they head into the knockout stage. Their opponents, 1 Ladakh FC, have everything to play for, as a victory is their only hope to keep their qualification dreams alive following a 1-1 draw in their first game.
Meanwhile, the action shifts to a high-stakes North-East derby in Group E, where NorthEast United FC will clash with local rivals Shillong Lajong FC. The Highlanders, the defending champions, kicked off their campaign with a decisive 3-1 victory against Malaysia’s Armed Forces, powered by a spectacular hat-trick from Alaaeddine Ajaraie. Coach Juan Pedro Benali’s side appears sharp and confident as they chase a second consecutive title. However, Shillong Lajong FC has been nothing short of dominant, leading the group with six points from two commanding wins. Having lost to NorthEast United FC in last year’s semi-final, Shillong Lajong will be desperate to settle the score in front of their home fans, setting the stage for a cracking contest that could well decide the group’s fate.
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