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India Stands Firm as Iran Applies Pressure in CAFA Nations Cup 2025
The Hisor Central Stadium in Tajikistan buzzed with anticipation as India’s national football team lined up against Asian powerhouse Iran for their second group encounter at the CAFA Nations Cup 2025. The match—broadcast live on FanCode from 5:30 PM IST—presented a classic “David vs Goliath” narrative, with India’s FIFA ranking at 133 against Iran’s formidable 20th place.
Early Tension and Defensive Grit
The opening minutes saw a spirited start from the Blue Tigers, who were still buoyant from their 2-1 upset over co-hosts Tajikistan. India’s new coach, Khalid Jamil, praised his squad’s teamwork and defensive discipline after the previous game, and those qualities were put to an even sterner test against Iran’s technical and physical prowess.
By the 10th minute, Iran had won a flurry of early corners. Indian defenders, marshaled by captain Sandesh Jhingan and the imposing presence of goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, scrambled repeatedly to clear their lines. Gurpreet made several vital interventions, notably rushing out in the 17th minute to smother a point-blank Iranian shot—keeping the scoreline level as India weathered waves of Iranian attacks.
Battle in the Trenches
Midway through the first half, Iran intensified their offensive. Winger Norafkan and striker Aliyari kept pushing on both flanks, testing the resolve and organization of India’s defense. Yet, with every corner and dangerous cross, the Blue Tigers held firm—drawing cheers from the small but vocal contingent of Indian fans present in Hisor.
Despite the pressure, India managed a few forays forward. Ashique Kuruniyan and Irfan Yadwad combined for a half-chance in the opening stages, though Iran’s defensive structure remained largely unbreached.
Verified Facts and Key Events
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Match venue: Hisor Central Stadium, Hisor, Tajikistan
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Date & Time: September 1, 2025; Kickoff at 5:30 PM IST
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Broadcast: FanCode app and website
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India’s FIFA rank: 133; Iran: 20
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India’s last win vs Iran: 1959 Asian Games; most recent meeting: Iran 4-0 India, 2016 World Cup Qualifiers
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India Starting XI: Gurpreet Singh Sandhu (GK), Rahul Bheke, Anwar Ali, Sandesh Jhingan (C), Muhammed Uvais Moyikkal, Nikhil Prabhu, Suresh Wangjam, Danish Farooq, Vikram Partap Singh, Irfan Yadwad, Ashique Kuruniyan
Quotes from the Field
Coach Khalid Jamil, on facing Iran:
“The win in the last game was a huge motivation for us, but for this match, the main thing is to be ready and fresh—India faces one of Asia’s best today,” said Jamil before kickoff.
Defender Sandesh Jhingan, reflecting on the campaign:
“We must continue to improve, because our main aim is to qualify for the AFC Asian Cup for the third consecutive time. These games are important for us to prepare for the upcoming qualifiers,” Jhingan said after India’s opener.
Conclusion
As the match progressed, the gulf in class was evident, with Iran repeatedly threatening but unable to break India’s defensive doggedness in the first half. With both sides aware of the high stakes—India seeking an upset, Iran defending regional supremacy—every minute added to the growing drama in Tajikistan. For live updates, verified scores, and further match reporting, follow trusted outlets and official tournament channels.
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