IND vs AFG, CAFA Nations Cup 2025 Live: India & Afghanistan Play Goalless Draw In Hisor As Blue Tigers Remain Alive
**India vs Afghanistan: CAFA Nations Cup 2025 Live Match Report**
Welcome to the live blog of India’s second match of the CAFA Nations Cup 2025 against Afghanistan, taking place at the Hisor Central Stadium in Hisor, Tajikistan. This crucial fixture holds significant importance for both teams as they look to progress in the tournament.
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**Match Overview**
India are under pressure after a stunning 3-0 loss to Iran, which came following a promising 2-1 victory over the hosts, Tajikistan. Currently tied on three points with Tajikistan, the Blue Tigers need a win against Afghanistan to boost their chances of moving through to the playoffs.
The scenario is such that India requires Tajikistan not to defeat Iran in the later match of the day. Interestingly, a draw between India and Afghanistan, coupled with a similar result in the Tajikistan vs Iran game, would also be sufficient for India to advance. However, a defeat against Afghanistan would result in India’s elimination.
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**Team Formations & Injury Update**
India will be missing key defender Sandesh Jhingan, who has been ruled out of the remainder of the tournament due to injury. Afghanistan, on the other hand, find themselves in an even more precarious position, having lost both their previous games—3-1 against Iran and 2-0 versus Tajikistan.
Both teams face a do-or-die situation, underscoring the intensity expected in today’s encounter. Afghanistan has proven to be a tough opponent for India in recent years, so the Blue Tigers must remain vigilant throughout the match.
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**First Half Highlights**
The match kicked off at the Hisor Central Stadium with both sides showing intensity, but it was Afghanistan that held higher possession with 60%. Despite this, India managed to create more chances, showcasing a tactical battle between the teams.
Indian goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh made an outstanding save in the 23rd minute to keep the scoreline level. Ashique Kuruniyan impressed with his continued good play, including a notable shot from outside the box, which was well blocked by an Afghan defender.
After 45 minutes, the scoreline remained 0-0, with both defenses holding firm in what was a vital contest.
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**Second Half Action**
The second half began with India immediately on the attack, but Afghanistan’s defense was quick to clear a dangerous cross from Vikram Pratap Singh.
As the game progressed, Afghanistan increased their proactivity and began pressing higher up the pitch. However, the deadlock still stood despite the intense pressure, with 75 minutes now played.
India appeared to maintain more possession in the second half, looking for a breakthrough. Key substitutions were made in the 80th minute, with Udanta Singh Kumam, Danish Farooq Bhat, and Lallianzuala Chhangte replacing outgoing players in an attempt to change the game’s momentum.
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**Crucial minutes and Final Moments**
As the match approached the 88th minute, neither team had managed to score. A tense atmosphere prevailed, with both sides cautious not to concede late goals.
Ashique Kuruniyan received a yellow card after an incident involving stepping on an Afghan defender’s feet while attempting to collect the ball.
After five additional minutes of stoppage time, the match ended in a 0-0 draw.
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**What This Means for India**
India will now have to wait for the outcome of the Iran vs Tajikistan match to determine whether they have progressed to the playoffs. Given the current results, the Blue Tigers have done enough to keep their hopes alive with a resilient performance against a tough Afghan side.
Stay tuned for more updates on the CAFA Nations Cup 2025 as the tournament continues.
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