Team Goemkarponn
Panaji: FC Goa are preparing for their biggest test yet in the AFC Champions League Two as they take on Saudi Arabian powerhouse Al-Nassr FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Goa on Wednesday. The Indian Super League (ISL) side will be eager to open their points tally after suffering back-to-back defeats in their opening two Group D fixtures.
The Gaurs began their campaign with a 0–2 loss to Iraq’s Al-Zawraa despite a spirited showing and several scoring opportunities created by Dejan Drazic and Javier Siverio. Their second outing ended in another narrow defeat to FC Istiklol of Tajikistan, leaving Manolo Marquez’s men rooted at the bottom of the table and still searching for their first goal of the competition.
The challenge now intensifies as they face Al-Nassr, one of Asia’s most successful football clubs and ten-time champions of the Saudi Pro League. The visitors have been in commanding form, winning both of their group matches so far a dominant 5–0 triumph over Istiklol followed by a comfortable 2–0 victory against Al-Zawraa. With two wins from two, Al-Nassr sit firmly atop Group D and are favourites to progress to the knockout stage.
Although Cristiano Ronaldo and Marcelo Brozović are absent, the Saudi side have travelled with a near full-strength squad featuring several star names capable of turning the match in their favour. Their depth and attacking prowess will test FC Goa’s defensive organisation and resilience.
For the home team, the fixture represents both a formidable challenge and an opportunity to reignite their campaign in front of passionate Goan fans. A disciplined performance, clinical finishing, and strong home support could help the Gaurs stand tall against a world-class opponent.
In the group’s other encounter, FC Istiklol will host Al-Zawraa SC on the same day, as the race for qualification from Group D begins to heat up.
