Kolkata, August 13: In a high-stakes AFC Champions League Two play-off, FC Goa overcame Omani side Al Seeb 2–1 on Wednesday evening at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Fatorda. The Gaurs seized the opportunity, sealing their place in the group stage and reigniting their Asian ambitions. This marks their return to the continental stage for the first time since 2021, when they created history as the first Indian club to feature in the AFC Champions League group stages. Their Kalinga Super Cup triumph last season paved the way for yet another chapter in their Asian journey.

The match began with both sides showing attacking intent, but FC Goa looked sharper in possession. In the 18th minute, Siverio headed the ball down inside the box in between gatherings to Guarrotxena, who collected it and attempted a quick one-two to break through. However, the Al Seeb keeper made a save preventing the attack from developing.

Goa broke the deadlock in the 24th minute through a moment of brilliance from Drazic. Receiving the ball on the left side, he spotted the goalkeeper off his line. From just outside the 18-yard box, he chipped the ball over the advancing keeper, sending it into the net. The goal gave FC Goa a deserved 1–0 lead.

Drazic of FC Goa after scoring against AL Sheeb

Al Seeb came close to levelling in the 43rd minute after a handball incident involving Drazic, who had blocked their attack near the right side of the box. Initially, the referee pointed to the penalty spot, but after consulting the assistant, it was determined the handball occurred outside the box. A free-kick was awarded, but Ali Suleiman’s effort failed to trouble the Gaurs defense.

FC Goa started the second half strongly and doubled their lead in the 52nd minute. Drazic’s shot was deflected behind for a corner from the right side. From the delivery, Siverio rose highest, heading the ball into the back of the net to make it 2–0.

However, Al Seeb responded just eight minutes later. In the 60th minute, a quick attacking move saw Al Suleiman from inside the left side of the box, play the ball to Nasser Sultan, and Sultan calmly slotted it into the frame, from close range to reduce the margin to 2-1. The visitors continued to create danger, posing an effective threat in the final third, but Goa’s defence stood firm.

In the 81st minute, the Gaurs came close to restoring their two-goal lead when Borja Herrera played a precise pass to Siverio inside the box. The striker turned sharply and unleashed a grounder shot, but it rolled closely wide.

Although some late pressure from both sides, neither team could find the net again in the evening, as FC Goa held on for a 2–1 victory to secure their place in the AFC Champions League Two group stage.