India FC Goa sealed its place in the AFC Champions League Two 2025–26 with 2-1 victory over the ruling Omani champions Al Seeb Club at the Jawaharlal stadium nezru nestu on Goa on Wednesday. Their first performance on the continental scene since 2021, when they became the first Indian club to play in the AFC Champions League.
Gaurs qualified for a preliminary clash by winning the Super Cup Kalinga last season. Head coach Manolo Marquez who returned to the club Its stint with the Indian national teamHe named the party full of strength, launched all six foreign signatures, including the debutants of Pol Moreno, David Timor and Javier Siverio.
Although Al Seeb dominates early holding, Goa looked threatened with sets. The breakthrough came in the 24th minute, when the Serbian striker Dejan Drazic fell into the long passage in his own half, jumped around the goalkeeper with a turn and put the ball over the retreating defender from the edge of the box.
Visitors almost equalized at the half-time when Al-Busaidi’s strong free kick was blinked across the goal, but missed the decisive touch. Goa held a close lead to the break.
Seven minutes to the second half, Drazic’s Mazy Run forced the corner. From the short routine Borja Herrera, she released the exact cross for Sivery, which got the highest to go home after the debut and do it 2-0.
Al Seeb hit an hour mark when Al-Busaidi cut off the ball back from the side line for Nasser Al-Rawahi to easily slide. The Oman’s side was pushing the equalizer, but Goa’s defense, which could be Moreno, remained compact.
Goa had a chance to restore her pillow of two goals-71. The minute head of Singh has been blocked while Siverio in 81. At the time of stopping, they tested the host of a frantic goalie and dangerous set-piece, but kept to claim a historic victory.
The result sees that FC Goa joins Mohun Bagan Super Giant in the AFC Champions League Two Group-Single second stage Asia under the elite of the AFC Champions League.
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Published:
Amar Pancker
Published on:
August 13, 2025
