India suffered a major setback at the CAFA Nations Cup after captain Sandesh Jhingan sustained a fractured jaw during the clash against Iran at the Hisor Central Stadium in Tajikistan, on Monday. The experienced defender, who had played every minute of the tournament so far, is now set to return home for treatment.
Jhingan, who had led India in the Iran fixture, battled through the game despite the injury but was later taken to hospital where scans confirmed the fracture. His absence will be a significant concern not only for the national team, who face Afghanistan in a decisive group encounter on Thursday, but also for FC Goa, with whom he is expected to feature in the AFC Champions League Two campaign beginning September 17 against Iraq’s Al-Zawraa SC.
The 30-year-old had been in fine form leading up to the setback, delivering a standout performance in India’s opening win over Tajikistan and impressing for Goa in their playoff victory against Al Seeb last month. His commanding presence at the back had made him a vital figure for both club and country.
For India, the timing could not be worse. Coach Khalid Jamil’s side needs at least a draw against Afghanistan to keep their hopes alive for a place in the third round, though a win would seal qualification outright. The challenge, however, grows steeper with Jhingan’s absence, especially considering India’s recent struggles against Afghanistan, who held them to a draw and then defeated them in last year’s meetings.
Chinglensana Singh is expected to step into the starting XI in place of Jhingan. The national team has already been without seven Mohun Bagan players, who were released to join their club’s preparations for the upcoming continental campaign. The additional blow of losing Jhingan further stretches India’s resources ahead of the final group stage clash.
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