Indian footballers have created history by winning the bronze medal in their debut appearance at the CAFA Nations Cup 2025, defeating higher-ranked Oman 3-2 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in regulation and extra time.
In the third-place playoff at the Hisor Central Stadium in Tajikistan, Udanta Singh scored a late equaliser and stretched the game to penalties, where goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu’s heroic saves sealed the victory.
It was a captivating contest that tested India’s resolve against a superior Oman team. Oman took the lead in the 55th minute through Jameel Al Yahmadi’s well-placed finish. India responded in the 80th minute with substitute Udanta Singh’s brave header, which was confirmed after a VAR review.
It was one of those matches where pure statistics would not be able to paint the entire picture. While Oman dominated the possession, both sides shared nearly equal number of chances. India began on the front foot, launching counter attacks through Vikram Partap Singh and Lallianzuala Chhangte on the wings.
India had a good chance to take the lead just before half-time when Chhangte found Irfan Yadwad with a low cut-back, but Yadwad scuffed his shot, which went wide.
Oman started off on the front foot in the second half and scored within 10 minutes of the restart when Abdullah Fawaz flicked the ball from inside the box with the outside of his boot towards Al Yahmadi, who tapped it in at the far post.
The intensity of the match went up in extra time after Oman’s Ali Al Busaidi was sent off, reducing Oman to 10 men. Despite India’s numerical advantage, the winning moment came only in the penalty shootout. While Lallianzuala Chhangte, Rahul Bheke and Jithin MS converted their penalties confidently, goalkeeper and captain Gurpreet Singh Sandhu made crucial saves, including the final penalty that secured India’s historic win.
All India Football Federation (AIFF) president Kalyan Chaubey hailed the team’s perseverance, calling it “a proud moment for Indian football and millions of fans”. Coach Khalid Jamil praised the squad’s mental strength and tactical maturity throughout the tournament.
India’s journey at the CAFA Nations Cup symbolises a significant improvement in their performance, showcasing more resilience and a strategic approach under new head coach Khalid Jamil. Despite some star players from Mohun Bagan missing in action, India displayed strong defensive organisation and an effective attacking play throughout the tournament.
Their performances against Central Asian teams, including Tajikistan and Oman, underscore India’s competitive growth on the regional stage. The bronze medal marks India’s best-ever finish in the tournament and validates the team’s progress, which is rooted in long-term investment in grassroots football and tactical evolution.
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