India vs Tajikistan Preview: Kick-off Time, Telecast, Lineups & Key Players to Watch

India vs Tajikistan CAFA Nations Cup 2025

The begining of new journey for the Indian football team under Khalid Jamil starts on Friday, 29 August 2025 where the Blue Tigers will contest their first game of the CAFA Nations Cup 2025 against Tajikistan at the Hisor Central Stadium.

This is India’s first-ever CAFA Nations Cup and fans are also keen on see how the team perform against Central Asian opposition for the first time too; and, while it is going to be a big challenge in the first group fixture against a strong Tajikistan team, this will also be a chance for Jamil’s men to show that they have a new identity.

India vs Tajikistan: Match Preview

Tajikistan: Getting Ready to Go

Tajikistan is coming into the tournament playing well, without a loss in their last three games. They’ve won half of their games this year, and their coach, Gela Shekiladze, wants them to start strong.

With the Asian Cup qualifiers coming up in 2027, this tournament is important practice. Tajikistan likes to attack with speed and quick passes, which could be hard for India to handle. If they win big here, they’ll be in a great spot to move on to the next round.

India: A Fresh Start with Khalid Jamil

India is at a turning point with Khalid Jamil now in charge. He’s the first Indian coach to lead the national team in over ten years. It won’t be easy for him. The team has only won once in four games this year.

🗣️🔊 Khalid Jamil

Read the full preview here 👉 https://t.co/3RDeRNACxW#TJKIND #CAFANationsCup2025 #BlueTigers #IndianFootball pic.twitter.com/0tROIH4Ms9

— Indian Football Team (@IndianFootball) August 28, 2025

Jamil will likely focus on a tight defense and try to score on fast breaks and free kicks. If they win his first game, it could really boost the team’s confidence. But if they lose, there might be some pressure on everyone.

Team Updates

Tajikistan: The Manager Shekiladze has selected a strong squad with most of their first choice players available.

India: Khalid Jamil has announced a squad of 23, but left some big names including India’s all-time leading scorer Sunil Chhetri. Interestingly, there are no Mohun Bagan players in the squad.

Also Read: SAFF U-17 Championship 2025: Full Schedule, Groups, India vs Pakistan Clash Set

Head-to-Head Record – India vs Tajikistan

• Matches Played – 5
• India Wins – 1
• Tajikistan Wins – 3
• Draws – 1

India’s only win over Tajikistan came in the 2008 AFC Challenge Cup. Since then, Tajikistan have dominated, scoring 9 goals in the last three meetings.

India vs Tajikistan: Probable Lineups

Tajikistan (4-2-3-1):
Rustan Yatimov (GK), Akhtam Nazarov, Vahdat Hanonov, Manuchehr Safarov, Zoir Dzhuraboev, Amirbek Juraboev, Ehsoni Panshanbe, Alisher Dzhaliov, Parvizdhon Umarboev, Shahrom Samiev, Shervoni Mabatshoev

India (4-4-1-1):
Gurpreet Singh Sandhu (GK), Hmangthanmawia Ralte, Anwar Ali, Sandesh Jhingan, Muhammed Uvais, Nikhil Prabhu, Suresh Singh, Naorem Mahesh Singh, Lallianzuala Chhangte, Ashique Kuruniyan, Irfan Yadwad

Key Players to Watch

Shahrom Samiev (Tajikistan)

Samiev is a forward who can do it all and has netted nine times for his country so far. He comes out of a very good season with Xorazm FC, and his great speed and strength might cause a lot of trouble for the Indian defenders. Don’t be surprised if he takes charge of the attack for Tajikistan.

Lallianzuala Chhangte (India)

As of 2025, Lallianzuala Chhangte is one of the best players for last couple of seasons. One of the main reasons for India to break through the defense of Tajikistan would be Chhangte’s inventive play, his knack for opening up the spaces, and his general quality as a cut through in the box. He will be indispensable to Jamil’s tactical plan.

India vs Tajikistan Telecast Details

Live Streaming: Fancode

Match: India vs Tajikistan, CAFA Nations Cup 2025

Date: Friday, 29 August 2025

Venue: Hisor Central Stadium, Tajikistan

Kick-off: 9 PM IST

The India vs Tajikistan game is a big one for Khalid Jamil’s time as coach. Playing a skilled Tajikistan team will really test how well the Blue Tigers can stick to their game plan and stay mentally tough.

If India wins, it could really boost their confidence for the rest of the contest, but they need to make the most of their chances. Tajikistan will be trying to show that they’re the team to beat right from the start.

This game is more than just a football match; it’s about what Indian football believes in and what it stands for.