The Central Asian Football Association — CAFA has officially invited the Russia national team to participate in the Nations Cup taking place in September 2025. However, the participation of the Russian team in this competition is currently in great doubt.
Who is included in CAFA?
The association consists of the following countries:
- Uzbekistan,
- Iran,
- Kyrgyzstan,
- Tajikistan,
- Turkmenistan,
- Afghanistan.
The 2023 CAFA tournament was held in Uzbekistan, where Iran claimed the championship, and Oman participated as a guest team.
Why might the Russia team not play in CAFA?
According to a source familiar with the situation, the Russian national team led by Karpin has been invited to the CAFA tournament in September, but the likelihood of participation is very low.
“The competition includes four matches in a tight schedule. At this time, the Russian Football Union is focusing heavily on two friendly matches,” the source says.
Additionally, the match scheduled for October 6 between Russia and Iran also conflicts with the tournament. The Russian side is not planning to hold a second game against Iran apart from this match, which does not align with the format within CAFA.
Briefly about the CAFA Nations Cup
- September 2025 — the second edition of the Nations Cup
- Uzbekistan will host
- 2023 champion — Iran
- 2023 guest — Oman
What do you think — how important is the participation of the Russia national team in the CAFA tournament for the level of the tournament? Which other countries might join the competition?
