Shillong, February 12: It was a difficult outing for Jamshedpur FC’s youth teams as both the reserves and U-17 sides suffered defeats in their respective matches. The reserve team fell 3-1 to NorthEast United FC in the Reliance Foundation Development League (RFDL) Zonal Round, while the U-17 team endured a 7-0 loss to AIFF FIFA Talent Academy in the U-17 Elite League.
Jamshedpur FC Reserves dominated large spells of their match but failed to capitalize on a dozen scoring opportunities, ultimately leading to their downfall. NorthEast United FC took an early lead in the third minute, but Bivan equalized in the 52nd minute. Despite controlling possession and creating chances, Jamshedpur FC struggled in front of goal, allowing NorthEast United to regain control and seal the win. The defeat sees Jamshedpur FC drop to fourth place in the table, behind NorthEast United, Classic FA, and Aizawl FC.
In the U-17 Elite League, Jamshedpur FC fielded a weakened squad, with most of their key players participating in the RFDL. Having previously beaten AIFF FIFA Talent Academy 2-1 at the JRD Tata Sports Complex, Jamshedpur were unable to replicate that performance, suffering a heavy defeat. Despite the loss, they remain second in the standings with 18 points, while AIFF FIFA Talent Academy leads with 22 points.
Both teams will look to bounce back on February 15, with the U-17 side set to face SKM Sports in an away fixture at Kalna, West Bengal, while the reserves will take on Mizoram Youth Football Foundation in their next RFDL clash.
