The opening day of the CAFA Nations Cup continues with a pivotal group stage clash between Tajikistan and India, set for Friday, August 29 at 17:30 CET. Both teams come into the match with points to prove, but it’s the Tajik side that looks better positioned for success.
Match Preview
Tajikistan had a tough outing in the previous edition of the CAFA Nations Cup, failing to win a single group stage game in a group featuring Uzbekistan, Oman, and Turkmenistan. However, recent performances suggest a team rebuilding with some momentum. A 2-1 win over Cambodia and a 2-2 draw with the Philippines have shown improvements in their attacking fluidity, with goals coming from different areas of the pitch.
What stands out for Tajikistan is their consistency in finding the net. They’ve scored in three straight matches and seem more confident in forward play. Defensively, questions remain, but in this matchup, they’re likely to see more of the ball and dictate tempo.
India, making their debut in the CAFA Nations Cup, arrive with a mixed bag of recent results. While they’ve suffered just one defeat in their last 10 matches, the number of draws and goalless outings is a concern. Three consecutive matches without scoring, including losses to Thailand (0-2) and Hong Kong (0-1) in June, underscore the current lack of cutting edge in attack.
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India’s midfield struggles to connect with the forward line, and their defensive shape—while compact—often invites too much pressure. Unless there’s a marked improvement in build-up play and finishing, they could struggle to keep pace with Tajikistan’s energy and directness.
Tajikistan vs India Head-to-Head (Key Match Facts)
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Tajikistan have lost just once in their last five matches
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India have only one win in their previous 10 games
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India have failed to score in their last three matches
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Tajikistan have scored in each of their last three outings
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Last H2H meeting: Tajikistan beat India 4-2 (2019)
Tajikistan vs India Lineups (Probable)
Tajikistan: Yatimov; Karimov, Juraboev, Safarov, Akhtamov; Shukurov, Aknazarov, Olimzoda; Umarbaev, Daliev, Samiev
India: Sandhu; Bose, Poojary, Ali, Bheke; Singh, Singh, Samad, Sekar; Chhangte, Singh
Tajikistan vs India Prediction and Betting Tip
With India struggling to find the net and Tajikistan coming in with more attacking confidence and cohesion, the hosts of the 2023 CAFA final look better equipped to take all three points. Expect Tajikistan to control the rhythm, especially in midfield, and eventually break through India’s compact but unthreatening setup.
Best Bet: Tajikistan to Win
Odds: 1.60
Projected Scoreline: Tajikistan 2-0 India
