Fatorda Stadium, Goa – In a stunning turn of events during their AFC Champions League Two Group D match against FC Istiklol, the FC Goa players staged a silent protest. The match, held on December 24, 2025, at Fatorda Stadium, witnessed the Gaurs taking a stand, though the reasons behind the demonstration remain unconfirmed.
The nature of the protest was a silent one, with players refraining from overt displays or slogans. The subdued demonstration sparked varied reactions among fans and analysts, with speculations ranging from concerns about club management to broader issues impacting Indian football.
Adding to the drama, FC Goa suffered a 2-0 defeat against FC Istiklol. Rustam Soirov and Reza Dehghani scored in the second half, securing the victory for the Tajikistani team. This loss marks the Gaurs' second defeat in the tournament, increasing the pressure on the team as they navigate a challenging group stage.
The match started with both teams displaying tactical prowess, but Istiklol's Soirov broke the deadlock early in the second half, capitalizing on a defensive mix-up. Dehghani then extended Istiklol's lead, further solidifying their control over the game. FC Goa's attempts to retaliate were unsuccessful, with a late shot by Dejan Dražić failing to find the net.
The defeat has placed additional pressure on FC Goa, highlighting the competitiveness of the AFC Champions League Two and the need for improved performance in their upcoming matches. The team will need to regroup quickly as they prepare to face Al Nassr in their next home game on October 22.
While the on-field performance was disappointing for the home fans, the silent protest by the players has added another layer of intrigue to the situation. It remains to be seen how the club management and football authorities will respond to the players' demonstration and whether it will lead to any concrete changes or resolutions. For now, the focus shifts to FC Goa's upcoming matches and their quest to bounce back from this setback in the AFC Champions League Two.
