The Indian men’s football team faces a crucial test as they take on Oman in the third-place playoff of the CAFA Nations Cup 2025 at the Central Stadium in Hisor, Tajikistan. The match is scheduled for September 8 at 5:30 PM IST and will be streamed live on the Fan Code app and website.
India’s Journey in the Tournament
This year’s edition of the CAFA Nations Cup marked the debut of Khalid Jamil as head coach of the Indian national side. His tenure began on a promising note when India secured a 2-1 victory over Tajikistan in their group stage opener. It was a performance that inspired hope among fans, showcasing resilience and attacking intent.
However, the momentum could not be sustained. India suffered a 3-0 defeat against Iran, widely regarded as one of Asia’s strongest teams. That result left India needing points from their final match. Against Afghanistan, the team struggled to break down a solid defense, eventually settling for a goalless draw. With four points from three matches, India finished second in their group, missing out on a place in the final but ensuring a playoff clash for third place.
Oman’s Strong Form Leading to Playoffs
Oman, ranked 79th on the FIFA World Rankings, entered the tournament as one of the regional heavyweights. They demonstrated consistency across the group stage. Oman held Uzbekistan to a 1-1 draw, a commendable result against a team already qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. Following that, Oman registered identical 2-1 victories over Kyrgyzstan and Turkmenistan, which earned them second place in their group.
The team has combined experience with structure, making them clear favorites in the playoff on paper. India, ranked below Oman, will need to deliver a disciplined and dynamic performance to challenge their opponents.
What’s at Stake
While the third-place playoff does not come with a trophy, the clash is meaningful for multiple reasons. For Oman, it is a chance to underline their importance in Asian football and continue building momentum ahead of their World Cup qualifying campaign. For India, the match is an opportunity to test themselves against a higher-ranked opponent and secure a podium finish in their maiden CAFA Nations Cup campaign.
Coach Khalid Jamil will view this as a chance to measure progress, especially in terms of attacking combinations and defensive cohesion. Given India’s inconsistencies in the group stage, a positive result against Oman would offer much-needed confidence and set the tone for upcoming fixtures.
Venue and Atmosphere
The Central Stadium in Hisor, Tajikistan, has played host to all of India’s matches at the tournament. With a capacity crowd expected, the venue will once again serve as the proving ground where India must rise to the occasion.
Indian Squad
The Indian squad for the CAFA Nations Cup 2025 reflects a balance of established names and young talent. Veterans like Sandesh Jhingan and Gurpreet Singh Sandhu bring stability and leadership, while emerging players such as Naorem Mahesh Singh and Jeakson Singh add energy and creativity.
Goalkeepers: Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, Amrinder Singh, Hrithik Tiwar
Defenders: Rahul Bheke, Naorem Roshan Singh, Anwar Ali, Sandesh Jhingan, Chinglensana Singh, Hmingthanmawia Ralte, Muhammed Uvai Midfielders: Nikhil Prabhu, Suresh Singh Wangjam, Danish Farooq Bhat, Jeakson Singh, Boris Singh, Ashique Kuruniyan, Udanta Singh, Naorem Mahesh Singh
This blend of experience and fresh legs under Khalid Jamil’s guidance will be India’s strength in pushing Oman to their limits.
Live Streaming and Broadcast Details
The India vs Oman, CAFA Nations Cup 2025 third-place playoff will kick off at 5:30 PM IST on September 8. Fans in India can follow all the action live on the FanCode app and website, which holds the official digital rights for the competition.
Statement from the Camp
Speaking ahead of the match, coach Khalid Jamil emphasized teamwork and resilience: “Every match at this level is a challenge and an opportunity. We respect Oman and the quality they bring, but our focus is on improving as a unit, playing with courage, and showing that India can rise on the continental stage.”
Key Factors to Watch
- India’s attacking approach against an organized Omani defense.
- Leadership from senior figures like Sandesh Jhingan at the back.
- The role of midfield battle, particularly Jeakson Singh and Suresh Wangjam, in dictating tempo.
- Oman’s forward line, which has already proven effective, against Gurpreet Singh Sandhu’s goalkeeping presence.
Conclusion
The playoff game between India and Oman is more than just a battle for third place—it is a contest that reflects ambition, growth, and the desire to establish a stronger foothold in Asian football. For India, it is a chance to end the tournament on a high note and provide a glimpse into the future under new leadership. For Oman, it is about consolidating their regional domination and proving consistency ahead of upcoming international assignments.
Whichever way the result swings, the clash promises intensity, drama, and quality football. Fans across India will be watching closely, hoping for a spirited performance as the Blue Tigers aim to close their CAFA Nations Cup campaign with pride.
