India secured a historic third-place finish at the CAFA Nations Cup 2025, defeating Oman 3-2 in a thrilling penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw. The victory, achieved on September 8 in Hisor, Tajikistan, marks India's first-ever win against Oman in international football and provides a significant boost for the team.
The match was a tense affair, with Oman initially dominating possession and pressing India into their own half. Despite Oman's early pressure, the Indian defense, led by Anwar Ali and Rahul Bheke, held firm. India's first real chance came from a Lallianzuala Chhangte free-kick, which caused problems for the Omani backline. However, Oman maintained control for much of the first half, though they struggled to create clear-cut chances.
In the second half, Oman broke the deadlock in the 56th minute through Al Yahmadi, who capitalized on a defensive error to put his team ahead. The goal followed a period of sustained pressure from Oman.
Trailing by a goal, India responded with attacking substitutions, bringing on Roshan Singh and Manvir Singh Jr.. The changes injected fresh energy into the team, and India found an equalizer in the 81st minute when Udanta Singh scored with a diving header from a long throw-in. The goal sparked celebrations in the Indian camp and forced the match into extra time.
Oman suffered a setback in the 98th minute when they were reduced to 10 men after a red card. Despite the numerical advantage, India was unable to break through Oman's defense in extra time. Both sides appeared visibly tired as the game wore on, and neither could find a winning goal.
The match then went to a penalty shootout to determine the winner. India started strong, with Chhangte and Bheke converting their spot-kicks, while Oman missed their first two attempts. Goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, wearing the captain's armband, played a crucial role, saving Oman's final penalty to secure a 3-2 shootout victory for India. Jithin scored India's third penalty. Udanta Singh missed his penalty but Gurpreet Singh Sandhu ensured that the shootout did not go to sudden death. Al Kaabi of Oman shot one of the penalties over the bar.
This victory is a significant achievement for India, especially after a challenging period that included a drop in FIFA ranking and uncertainty surrounding the Indian Super League. It also marks a promising start for Khalid Jamil's tenure as the head coach of the Indian national team. Jamil's attacking approach was evident in his starting lineup and substitutions, which ultimately contributed to India's success.
The win provides a morale boost for Indian football and offers hope for a brighter future. This was also the first time that India defeated Oman in an international football match.
