Guwahati/Jamshedpur, May 14: Jamshedpur FC U17 capped off a remarkable run in the AIFF U17 Elite Youth League 2024–25 as runners-up, after a 1-4 defeat to a dominant Punjab FC in the final at the SAI Ground, Guwahati. Despite the loss, this was a historic achievement as it marked the first time a Jamshedpur FC or Tata Football Academy (TFA) side reached the final of India’s premier youth football tournament.
The final got off to a rough start for the Young Men of Steel. Punjab FC capitalized on defensive gaps and scored four goals within the first 38 minutes, including one directly from a corner in the 28th minute. JFC struggled to contain Punjab’s high press and physical gameplay in the first half.
However, Jamshedpur FC regrouped after the break and played with renewed intensity. Lawmsangzuala hit the crossbar in the 57th minute, while Rayan C and Zuala controlled the midfield. Mars Ningthoujam and Seram Singh brought urgency to the attack, which finally paid off in the 84th minute when Seram headed in a cross for a consolation goal.
The team’s journey to the final was impressive—they finished second in the qualifiers, topped their playoff round, and advanced from Group D. In the knockout stages, they beat NorthEast United in the quarterfinal and thrashed AIFF-FIFA Talent Academy 5-0 in the semifinal.
Built through post-COVID trials in Jamshedpur, this squad reflects Jamshedpur FC’s strong youth development programme. Despite falling short in the final, the team’s inspiring campaign stands as a proud milestone for the club.
