By Manisha Sahu, America News World

September 20,2025

For India’s defensive stalwart Sandesh Jhingan, the past few months have been a rollercoaster of emotions. From battling injuries and helping his team at the CAFA Nations Cup to now looking ahead at continental duties with FC Goa and the upcoming AFC Asian Cup qualifiers, the 31-year-old centre-back finds himself at the heart of Indian football’s most significant storylines.

Among the three, Sandesh Jhingan was the player that Khalid Jamil had appointed as captain of Indian team ahead of CAFA.

“Fear was there, but so was belief”

In an exclusive interaction with The Indian Express, Jhingan opened up about the anxiety players experienced amidst uncertainties leading up to the CAFA Nations Cup campaign.

“Even if you try to use words to cover up the situation, there was always uncertainty deep inside. There was fear. Football is the only job we have,” he admitted candidly. “More than the players, I was feeling more bad for the ones who are working in the clubs off the pitch.”

Yet, the veteran defender credited India’s new leadership for instilling belief in the team. “When he came in, he brought his philosophy, the way he wanted us to play. Credit to the boys also. He told us how he wants us to play these games and the boys adapted very well. It’s just his persona and of course, him being an Indian also makes a difference. It all just built up, you know. While we were there at the camp, we didn’t realise it at the time. But now, when the tournament is finished, I could look back and say, like, yes, the energy was there.”

More to read: Cyberattack Hits European Airports, Air India Warns of Delays for Passengers

The setback: a fractured cheekbone

Jhingan’s resilience was tested during India’s opening match of the CAFA Nations Cup against Tajikistan. Despite a memorable 2-1 victory, he sustained a painful cheekbone fracture that required surgery.

“For me, the immediate aim is to recover. I will be ready in about the next seven or 10 days,” Jhingan revealed. The surgery sidelined him briefly, but the defender is optimistic about a quick return, driven by his determination to support both club and country in crucial fixtures.

Looking beyond the Nations Cup

While India’s performance in the CAFA Nations Cup was widely celebrated, Jhingan was pragmatic about its long-term significance.

“The main reason for playing this tournament was to bring back the confidence in the group,” he said. “And I think it has lifted our spirits a lot, and now we have to continue building on it, knowing what is ahead of us, and we need to get maximum points in the next game.”

The immediate challenge lies in the AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualification campaign. India will face Singapore both home and away, matches that carry immense weight in shaping the country’s footballing trajectory. Jhingan, with his experience and leadership, will be central to India’s hopes.

More to read: Sudden Heavy Rain in Southern California Unleashes Deadly Mudslides; Toddler Drowns

Club focus: FC Goa and the AFC Champions League 2

Even before donning the national jersey again, Jhingan’s club duties demand his full attention. With FC Goa competing in the AFC Champions League 2 (ACL 2) group stage, the Goan side faces formidable opposition, none bigger than Saudi Arabian powerhouse Al-Nassr.

For Jhingan, the prospect of facing Al-Nassr isn’t just about a tactical battle—it carries the thrill of a potential duel against Cristiano Ronaldo, one of football’s greatest icons.

“It’ll be great if he comes. It’s not often you get to play one of the greats of the sport,” Jhingan said with a mix of admiration and anticipation. For Indian fans, the possibility of watching their national defender attempt to keep Ronaldo at bay on home soil could be a once-in-a-lifetime spectacle.

Balancing dreams and responsibilities

For Jhingan, the journey is far from easy. Injuries have interrupted his career before, but each time, he has returned stronger—both physically and mentally. His leadership on and off the pitch continues to inspire teammates, while his honesty about the challenges players face shines a light on the less glamorous side of professional football.

The defender’s upcoming schedule is demanding: recover from surgery, regroup with FC Goa for ACL 2, and then quickly switch gears for India’s critical qualifiers. Yet, Jhingan remains unfazed, embodying the spirit of perseverance that has defined his career.

The bigger picture for Indian football

India’s football ecosystem stands at a crossroads. The CAFA Nations Cup offered a morale boost, but the road ahead is long. Competing against stronger Asian teams, balancing domestic development, and carving out international respect remain pressing challenges.

In that journey, leaders like Jhingan play a pivotal role—not just through tackles and headers, but by setting the tone in the dressing room, guiding younger players, and showing fans that Indian footballers can dream of competing with the best.

A defender with unfinished business

As the countdown begins for FC Goa’s clash against Al-Nassr, fans across the subcontinent will be watching closely. Can Jhingan marshal his defense to stop the Saudi juggernaut? Can he, even for 90 minutes, stand in the way of Cristiano Ronaldo’s brilliance?

For Sandesh Jhingan, though, the mission is much bigger than one match or one tournament. It’s about recovery, responsibility, and a relentless belief in pushing Indian football forward—one challenge at a time.

For more updates stay connected with America News World.