As the 133rd edition of the IndianOil Durand Cup commenced in the Steel City of Jamshedpur, it is home side Jamshedpur FC who have announced themselves as one of the title contenders with two wins from their opening two encounters. Led by the AIFF Men’s Coach of the Year 2023-24, Khalid Jamil, the Red Miners have so far scored five goals and conceded just one.
Speaking about his side’s performance so far, coach Khalid said, “We still have a game left in the group stage, and we are focused on that game. We must try to win the game and finish the group stage with full points.”
“We will analyze and see their strengths and weaknesses; they are a very fit and physical side. We will see both of their matches and plan accordingly,” he further added while speaking about Jamshedpur FC’s final opponent in the group stage, Indian Army FT.
Khalid Jamil took over Jamshedpur FC as the head coach in the middle of 2023-24 Indian Super League season and took his side very close to making it to the play-offs. The club decided to continue their trust on the former I-League winning coach and extended his contract for the next two seasons. “It’s my pleasure to be a part of the Jamshedpur FC family. I am really happy that the management have given me the chance. I must work hard as a coach and pass on the same mentality to the players to give their all for Jamshedpur FC.”
Jamshedpur and Shillong were added as new hosts for the 133rd edition of the Durand Cup to strengthen the civil-military relationship across the regions. Speaking on the tournament’s stature, coach Khalid said, “The Durand Cup is the oldest and one of the best tournaments currently organized in India. The organization of the tournament have been executed very well and I hope, they continue doing so in the upcoming years as well. “
“The Durand Cup is an important tournament for us. We want to give chance to all the players depending on their availability and field our best combination making sure we don’t compromise on the results,” he further added.
Among his various managerial stints, what stands out for Khalid Jamil is his relationship with his players. And it is no surprise that two of his former students, Ashutosh Mehta and Alvino Gomes joined him in Jamshedpur FC this season. While speaking about his special relationship with players, Khalid said, “There’s no secret in this; as a coach I want to take the best out of my players. I motivate them to work hard and play their best football. In case one’s struggling with their performance, I make sure to push them more to give their hundred percent”
