Hisor, Tajikistan – August 29, 2025: The Indian men’s football team, under the stewardship of new head coach Khalid Jamil, marked a triumphant start to their CAFA Nations Cup 2025 campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 victory against hosts Tajikistan at the Hisor Central Stadium on Friday. This win, powered by early goals from defenders Anwar Ali and Sandesh Jhingan, ended an 18-year drought against Tajikistan, with India’s last victory over the Central Asian side dating back to the 2008 AFC Challenge Cup.
The match began with India asserting dominance early. In the 4th minute, Anwar Ali headed in a long throw to give the Blue Tigers a swift lead. The momentum continued as Sandesh Jhingan capitalized on a defensive lapse in the 13th minute, tapping in after a header from Rahul Bheke was parried by Tajikistan’s goalkeeper, doubling India’s advantage. Tajikistan responded in the 23rd minute when Shahrom Samiev scored a well-crafted team goal, cutting India’s lead to 2-1.
Despite Tajikistan’s persistent pressure in the second half, India’s defense, anchored by goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, stood resolute. Gurpreet’s heroics included a crucial penalty save from Soirov, denying Tajikistan an equalizer and preserving India’s slender lead. The Blue Tigers weathered late attacks, with Tajikistan narrowly missing chances, including a header from Hanonov that went wide in stoppage time.
Coach Khalid Jamil, the first Indian head coach in over a decade, emphasized unity and positivity in his pre-match comments, focusing on building a cohesive unit for future challenges, including the upcoming Asian Cup qualifiers. India’s squad, missing key players like Sunil Chhetri and Mohun Bagan Super Giant’s contingent due to the tournament falling outside the FIFA window, showcased resilience and tactical discipline.
India’s Group B campaign continues with matches against Iran on September 1 and Afghanistan on September 4, as they aim to secure a top-two finish for a shot at the final on September 8. The match, streamed live on FanCode, highlighted a new era for Indian football under Jamil’s leadership, with the team demonstrating grit and potential against a formidable Tajikistan side ranked 106th in the FIFA standings, compared to India’s 133rd.
Key Moments:
- 4’: Anwar Ali scores with a header from a long throw. (India 1-0 Tajikistan)
- 13’: Sandesh Jhingan taps in after a goalkeeper error. (India 2-0 Tajikistan)
- 23’: Shahrom Samiev pulls one back for Tajikistan. (India 2-1 Tajikistan)
- Second Half: Gurpreet Singh Sandhu saves a penalty, ensuring India’s victory.
This victory not only boosts India’s confidence but also signals a promising start for Jamil’s tenure as the Blue Tigers look to make their mark in the Central Asian tournament.
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