Kolkata, October 21: The stage is set at Fatorda as FC Goa brace themselves for one of their most thrilling and testing fixtures in the AFC Champions League Two. The Gaurs will face Saudi Arabian giant Al Nassr on Wednesday from 7:15 PM, marking a historic evening for Indian football fans.
Despite all the anticipation surrounding global icon Cristiano Ronaldo, the superstar didn’t travel to India with the squad due to other terms and conditions. However, Al Nassr has still arrived in Goa on Monday evening with a galaxy of stars, including Kingsley Coman, Joao Felix, Sadio Mane, Inigo Martinez, and several more, ensuring that the contest remains a spectacle of top-tier footballing talent.
For FC Goa, it’s more than just a game, it’s a chance to prove them on Asia’s biggest stage. Having lost both of their previous matches, the Gaurs are yet to open their points tally, while Al Nassr enters the fixture in supreme form, winning both of their opening encounters in the group stage.
Head coach Manolo Marquez remains optimistic yet realistic about the challenge ahead. Reflecting on the earlier games, he acknowledged the team’s missed opportunities but emphasized the need for competitiveness and belief heading into this crucial clash.
Best team would win always and he knows what kind of team Al Nassr is, but FC Goa need to be competitive to doing good and for a positive results, and will try to do it, Marquez shared in his pre-match briefing, highlighting both his respect for the opposition and his team’s determination to perform.
The task, however, won’t be easy. The ten-time Saudi Pro League champions, five-time King’s Cup winners, and two-time Saudi Super Cup holders have started their AFC Champions League Two campaign under the guidance of Jorge Jesus in dominant fashion. With depth and world-class experience across the pitch, Al Nassr are clear favorites, but the home advantage, passion, and hunger of Goa could script an unexpected twist.
Speaking ahead of the encounter, Manolo added,
“It’s a very difficult game, but very satisfied and pleased to receive a team like this, very good for FC Goa not only for FC Goa but for Indian football also but obviously it’s eleven vs eleven we will try to win the game.”
All eyes will be on several key battles that could shape the outcome of the night. The experienced Edu Bedia and Odei Onaindia will have to stay sharp against the fluid attacking movements of Joao Felix and Sadio Mane, while Drazic’s inventiveness in midfield will test Inigo Martinez’s defensive organisation. For Goa, maintaining structure, discipline, and quick transitions could make the difference. Their challenge will be to absorb Al Nassr’s pressure while capitalising on every counter opportunity that comes their way.
For Indian football, the night promises to be more than just ninety minutes of action, it’s a showcase of how far the sport has come and how much potential lies ahead. FC Goa will aim to rise to the moment, playing not just for points, but for Indian football’s growing reputation across the continent.
Watch FC Goa vs Al Nassr live at
Broadcast/Telecast – Fancode App
Kickoff – 7:15pm
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