India Prepares for CAFA Nations Cup 2025 Challenge in Central Asia

India has been placed in Group B alongside Tajikistan, Iran, and Afghanistan for the CAFA Nations Cup 2025, set to begin on August 29 in Dushanbe, Tajikistan. This tournament is crucial for India's preparations for the AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers.

The competition runs from August 31 to September 8 and will see India's subsequent matches against Iran and Afghanistan. The top two teams from each group will move to the play-offs on September 8, with the finals planned in Tashkent.

The new head coach, to be announced soon, will face the first test in guiding the national team. This eight-nation tournament includes Oman alongside India as guest teams, with Iran holding the defending champion's title from their previous win over Uzbekistan.

(With inputs from agencies.)