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India marks historic first victory at CAFA Nations Cup
The 2025 CAFA Nations Cup featured 8 participating teams.
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Bhavana P - Tue, 09, Sep 2025
- 15:32 EDT
- 17
Indian men's football team at the tournament / X/ Media_SAI
India’s men’s football team claimed its first-ever victory over Oman to secure the bronze medal at the 2025 Central Asian Football Association (CAFA) Nations Cup, an international tournament bringing together national teams from across Central Asia and invited countries.
The match played on Sept. 7 at Hisor Central Stadium in Tajikistan, ended 1-1 after regulation and extra time before India triumphed 3-2 in a penalty shootout.
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Oman, ranked higher than India, opened the scoring in the 55th minute through Jameel Al Yahmadi. India equalized in the 80th minute when substitute Udanta Singh headed in a cross, with the goal confirmed after a VAR review. The contest intensified in extra time, particularly after Oman’s Ali Al Busaidi was sent off, reducing his side to ten men. Despite India’s numerical advantage, the score remained level, sending the match to penalties.
In the decisive shootout, Lallianzuala Chhangte, Rahul Bheke and Jithin MS converted for India. Goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu delivered a standout performance, making two critical saves—including the final stop that sealed India’s historic victory over Oman.
The 2025 CAFA Nations Cup is the second edition of the biennial men's football championship organized by the Central Asian Football Association. It was co-hosted by Tajikistan and Uzbekistan from August 29 to September 8, 2025, featuring eight teams, including India and Oman as invited participants.
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