Did Sandesh Jhingan Suffer a Cheekbone Fracture at CAFA Nations Cup?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Sandesh Jhingan suffered a cheekbone fracture during the CAFA Nations Cup.
- The AIFF and FC Goa are providing comprehensive support for his recovery.
- India lost the match against Iran but qualified for the playoffs.
- The third-place match is scheduled for September 8.
- Jhingan's injury highlights the dedication of players on national duty.
New Delhi, Sep 5 (NationPress) The All India Football Federation (AIFF) and FC Goa released a joint statement on Friday confirming that Indian defender Sandesh Jhingan has sustained a cheekbone fracture during India’s CAFA Nations Cup 2025 match against Iran.
The injury occurred in the first half of the match, which India lost 0-3. Despite the injury, Jhingan exhibited remarkable resilience by playing for the full 90 minutes, demonstrating his warrior spirit for the Men in Blue. Following the match, he was ruled out of the remaining CAFA Cup fixtures and returned to India on Wednesday.
The statement from AIFF and FC Goa expressed their unwavering support for Jhingan, stating, "Sandesh is currently receiving expert medical care in Goa, where his recovery and rehabilitation are being closely monitored."
"AIFF and FC Goa are fully committed to ensuring that Sandesh receives the highest standard of treatment and support during this challenging time. The AIFF emphasizes its dedication to stand by players and clubs when injuries occur during national duty, providing comprehensive care and assistance," it added.
The collective focus is on facilitating Sandesh’s safe and timely return to the field. AIFF also extended gratitude to FC Goa for their understanding regarding the situation.
In terms of tournament progress, India has qualified for the third-place playoff after a draw with Afghanistan in their final Group B match. The Blue Tigers had to wait for the outcome of the IR Iran vs. Tajikistan match, which concluded in a 2-2 draw, to confirm their position.
Khalid Jamil’s squad concluded the group stage in second place with four points (one win, one loss, and one draw), while IR Iran topped Group B with seven points. Tajikistan and Afghanistan, with four and one point respectively, were eliminated from the tournament. India advanced past Tajikistan based on a superior head-to-head record following a 2-1 victory in their opening match.
The Blue Tigers are set to compete in the third-place match on September 8 at the same venue, facing the second-placed team from Group A.
Currently, Oman and Uzbekistan are both tied with four points, leading Group A. Turkmenistan and Kyrgyzstan are in third and fourth places, each with one point. Oman will face Turkmenistan, while Uzbekistan will meet Kyrgyzstan on the final match day of Group A this Friday.