New Delhi: India will face Oman in the third-place match of the CAFA Nations Cup 2025, with defender Anwar Ali stressing the importance of the contest as preparation for the AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers. The match is scheduled at the Hisor Central Stadium in Tajikistan on September 8.
India, ranked 133rd in FIFA rankings, secured a win, a loss, and a draw in the group stage to advance past hosts Tajikistan. They now take on Oman, ranked 79th, in what Anwar described as a valuable opportunity. “An international game is an international game. Every time you play at this level, it gives you more time and more confidence. We will give our best on Monday and try to get that third place,” he said.
The 25-year-old centre-back stepped up in India’s draw against Afghanistan, delivering a strong performance that earned him the Player of the Match award. His role has become even more crucial with senior defender Sandesh Jhingan sidelined due to a fractured jaw.
Anwar, born in Adampur, Punjab, began playing football at seven. Initially a striker, he transitioned into defence during his youth career at Minerva Punjab, which later earned him national team call-ups. He now represents East Bengal in the Indian Super League.
Looking ahead, Anwar believes facing stronger opponents like Oman will sharpen India for their upcoming qualifiers against Singapore. “We hope Sandesh recovers soon, but until then we must continue to perform our roles as a team,” he added.
