How can the Indian football team line up against Oman in CAFA Nations Cup 2025?

The Blue Tigers will be looking to end their CAFA Nations Cup 2025 campaign on a high note.

Khalid Jamil has had a decent start with the Indian national football team since being appointed as the new head coach. The former I-League winning manager helped the Blue Tigers to a second-placed finish in Group B of the CAFA Nations Cup 2025.

While India lost 3-0 to Iran, they held their own against Tajikistan, winning 2-1. The SAFF Cup champions also drew 0-0 with Afghanistan to advance from the group stage. While India are not in contention for the trophy, they will be facing Oman tomorrow to decide who finishes third in the tournament.

The Indian national football team will be without Sandesh Jhingan and Ashique Kuruniyan for this game. While the former is injured, the latter is suspended after picking up two yellow cards in the group stage.

Also Read: India up for third-place face off against Oman in CAFA Nations Cup 2025

Here is how the Indian football team could line up against Oman tomorrow:

Formation – 4-4-1-1

Goalkeeper: Gurpreet Singh Sandhu

Gurpreet Singh Sandhu was reinstated into the Indian squad by Khalid Jamil and the Bengaluru FC shortstopper has been decent in the tournament so far. We can expect Gurpreet to start once again as the goalkeeper looks to get back his spot in the starting XI from Vishal Kaith, when the Mohun Bagan player returns in the Indian setup.

Defenders: Valpuia, Rahul Bheke, Anwar Ali, Muhammed Uvais

The defensive quartet put up a good performance against Afghanistan as India played out a goalless draw. Muhammed Uvais has made the most of his chances in the three group games. Valpuia on the other hand, had a good match and was an able replacement for the experienced Sandesh Jhingan.

Rahul Bheke and Anwar Ali are expected to retain their place in the Indian XI after starting in all three group games. Khalid Jamil will be hoping these two develop better chemistry before the crucial Asian Cup qualifiers next month.

Midfielders: Nikhil Prabhu, Suresh Singh Wangjam, Naorem Mahesh Singh, Jithin MS

Ashique Kuruniyan will be suspended from the game after picking up two yellow cards in the group stage. Replacing him could be Jithin MS, who would take up the role of the left winger.

Nikhil Prabhu and Suresh Singh have been decent in the Indian midfield and are expected to be given a spot in the starting XI once again. Naorem Mahesh Singh on the other hand, is expected to be given the green light by Khalid Jamil to start on the right wing once again. However, Lallianzuala Chhangte might also be in contention.

Forwards: Irfan Yadwad, Vikram Pratap Singh

Irfan Yadwad has been handed starts in all group games by Khalid Jamil. The Chennaiyin FC forward has been working hard, however, he is yet to score his first goal in Indian colours, something he would be itching to get.

Vikram Pratap Singh has been good with Mumbai City FC over the years and giving up a chance to start up front will not be a surprise. The 23-year-old could benefit from Ashique’s absence as the nation is hoping to find their next big goalscorer, soon.

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