ISL 2024-25: Stephen Eze scores as Jamshedpur hold leaders Mohun Bagan

Jamshedpur FC and Mohun Bagan SG played out an intense 1-1 draw in an Indian Super League (ISL) clash at the JRD Tata Sports Complex on Friday (January 17).

The match's standout moment occurred in the 60th minute, when Jamshedpur defender Stephen Eze scored a sensational equaliser. Eze intercepted the ball 24 yards from goal, skillfully bypassed three Mohun Bagan defenders, and delivered a precise shot into the bottom-right corner from the center of the box.

The first half saw Mohun Bagan take the lead in the 25th minute through Subhasish Bose, who capitalized on a corner. Tom Aldred's clever assist set up Bose to slot the ball into the net, giving the visitors a 1-0 advantage. Jamshedpur FC, led by Javi Hernandez in attack, created several opportunities but were denied by Mohun Bagan goalkeeper Vishal Kaith, who made crucial saves. Jamshedpur's goalkeeper Albino Gomes was equally pivotal, making several brave stops to keep the deficit to one goal.

In the second half, Jamshedpur head coach Khalid Jamil introduced tactical changes, bringing on Siverio, Seminlen Doungel, and Imran Khan. These substitutions added momentum to the hosts' attack, ultimately culminating in Eze's remarkable goal, which shifted the match's dynamic in Jamshedpur's favor.

For the next 20 minutes, Jamshedpur FC pushed for a winner, with Siverio, Jordan Murray, and Mohammed Sanan coming close. However, Mohun Bagan's defense remained resilient and thwarted their efforts. In the final stages of the match, Mohun Bagan SG pressed forward in search of a decisive goal, but Albino Gomes delivered an impressive performance, making key saves to ensure Jamshedpur secured a point.

The draw maintains Jamshedpur FC's strong position in the race for a top-four finish, with a game in hand over the league leaders. Both teams demonstrated tactical discipline and determination in a match that captivated fans at the JRD Tata Sports Complex.

The result marked Jamshedpur FC's first draw of the season, taking them to 28 points from 15 matches and securing second place on the points table. Mohun Bagan SG retained their position as league leaders with 36 points from 16 matches. Jamshedpur FC's next match will be an away fixture against Hyderabad FC on January 23, while the Mariners will be up against Chennaiyin FC on January 21.