Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, Sandesh Jhingan pen heartfelt message for fans after India's loss against Iran

India succumbed to a 3-0 loss in their second match in the CAFA Nations Cup 2025.

The Indian men’s football team clashed with Asian heavyweights Iran in their second group-stage encounter of the CAFA Nations Cup 2025 on September 1 at the Hisor Central Stadium, Tajikistan.

Fresh from a dominating victory over hosts Tajikistan in the opener, the Blue Tigers entered the contest with confidence and intent. They produced a strong first-half display, marked by disciplined defending and tactical clarity that successfully blunted Iran’s attacking threats and kept the score level.

The defensive resilience was spearheaded by the ever-reliable duo of Gurpreet Singh Sandhu and captain Sandesh Jhingan. Gurpreet commanded his backline with precision, while Jhingan, donning the armband, stood firm and denied the Iranian forwards space to operate.

For nearly an hour, their efforts built an impenetrable wall before Iran eventually broke the deadlock. Two late goals sealed the result for the Asian giants, but the match highlighted India’s growth under Khalid Jamil and showed that the team is capable of competing against some of the best sides on the continent.

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Gurpreet Singh Sandhu and Sandesh Jhingan Reflect on Defeat Against Iran

At the heart of India’s disciplined showing were Gurpreet and Jhingan, who combined to lead the defensive line with grit and composure. While the final scoreline read 3-0 in Iran’s favour, the encounter showcased India’s tactical progress and resilience under Khalid Jamil’s guidance, leaving plenty of positives for fans to take away.

Following the match, both Gurpreet and Jhingan posted heartfelt messages on Instagram to thank the supporters and assure them of a stronger response in the next fixture. Gurpreet acknowledged the disappointment yet underlined the hunger within the squad:

“Not the best feeling knowing that we could have done much better than what the scoreline suggested, the hunger and the desire to push more and go after results is still intact. There is no room for excuses, we keep moving forward and give our best again on Thursday!”

Gurpreet Singh Sandhu shares a heartfelt post for the fans following India's 3-0 loss to Iran in the CAFA Nations Cup! #IndianFootball #IndianFootballTeam #BlueTigers pic.twitter.com/Qr1Qq632oB

— Khel Now (@KhelNow) September 2, 2025

Meanwhile, Sandesh Jhingan struck a similar tone, pointing out the positives and appreciating the fans who stood by them:

“Although the scoreline is something that continues to hurt but still a lot of positives from this game. Thank you to all who came in the stadium to support and everyone back home cheering for us. Upwards and Onwards. Together”

Captain Sandesh Jhingan shares words of gratitude for the fans for their support following India's loss in the CAFA Nations Cup 2025! #IndianFootball #IndianFootballTeam #BlueTigers pic.twitter.com/GxmNZYAVt8

— Khel Now (@KhelNow) September 2, 2025

India Eye Must-Win Clash Against Afghanistan

The Blue Tigers will now shift focus to their final group-stage fixture against Afghanistan on Thursday, September 4. India currently sit second in Group B with one match left to play.

The team that finishes first will advance to the final, while the runner-up will contest the third-place playoff. A spirited performance against Afghanistan is crucial if the Blue Tigers hope to keep their campaign alive and finish on a high.

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