FC Goa is gearing up for a crucial AFC Champions League Two (ACL2) preliminary stage clash against Oman's Al Seeb Club, a match that could define their continental aspirations for the 2025-26 season. The Gaurs, under the guidance of Spanish head coach Manolo Marquez, will host the single-leg qualifier at the Fatorda Stadium on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, with the aim of securing a coveted spot in the ACL2 group stage.
This marks FC Goa's return to Asian competition since 2021 when they became the first Indian club to play in the AFC Champions League group stage. They earned their place in this year's ACL2 preliminary stage by winning the Super Cup earlier in 2025. However, standing in their way is a formidable Al Seeb side, a team with a proven track record in both domestic and continental competitions.
Al Seeb are the reigning champions of the Oman Professional League, having won the title in the past two seasons. In 2022, they etched their name in Asian football history by winning the AFC Cup, now known as the AFC Champions League Two, becoming the first Omani club to achieve this feat. Their squad also features multiple players from the Omani national team, highlighting the quality and experience within their ranks.
The stakes are high for both teams, as the winner of this knockout clash will advance to the AFC Champions League Two group stage, joining fellow Indian side Mohun Bagan Super Giant, who qualified directly after winning the ISL Shield. The losing team, on the other hand, will drop into the AFC Challenge League.
FC Goa has been preparing for this crucial encounter since the third week of July, opting for internal training sessions and a closed-door friendly against India's U-23 side instead of participating in pre-season tournaments. Coach Manolo Marquez, who has extended his commitment to the club, is banking on a mix of experience and fresh talent to overcome the Al Seeb challenge. Key players like Borja Herrera, Dejan Dražić, and Brison Fernandes are expected to play pivotal roles, alongside defensive stalwart Sandesh Jhingan. The club has also reshaped its foreign contingent, bringing in new faces to strengthen the squad. David Timor and Pol Moreno are new foreign players who will be playing in India for the first time.
Marquez acknowledged the strength of Al Seeb, recognizing that many of their players are also part of the Omani national team, who are striving to qualify for the World Cup. However, he expressed confidence in his team's chances, emphasizing the importance of home support and an equal contest. "It will be difficult for us, but it will not be easy for them either," he stated.
As FC Goa embarks on this significant continental journey, they will be looking to draw inspiration from their previous Asian campaign in 2021, where they secured three draws against strong opponents in the AFC Champions League group stage. With a blend of familiar faces and new additions, the Gaurs are aiming to make their mark in the AFC Champions League Two and bring glory to Indian football.
The match is scheduled to kick off at 7:30 PM IST on August 13, 2025, at the Fatorda Stadium in Goa. Khel Now TV will broadcast the match live on their YouTube channel.
