Saudi club officials meet Sports Minister, DGP to discuss security and logistics at Fatorda
PANAJI
The moot question – will Christiano Ronaldo come to Goa? – continues to remain unanswered even as senior officials of the Saudi Pro League Club Al-Nassr who arrived in Goa on Thursday met with Sports Minister Ramesh Tawadkar and Director General of Police Alok Kumar, IPS, to coordinate logistics and arrangements for their high-profile AFC Champions League 2 clash with FC Goa scheduled at the Nehru Stadium, Fatorda, on October 22.
The visiting delegation, comprising Al-Nassr’s logistics officer and head of first team operations, held crucial meetings with Tawadkar and Kumar to ensure seamless arrangements for the match, expected to draw massive crowds and international attention.
The discussions focused on stadium readiness, security protocols, crowd management, and hospitality for the visiting team.
Tawadkar, according to an official present at the meeting, has assured full support from the government – Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs and SAG.
The minister said Goa is committed to host world-class sporting events well, according to the official.
Kumar has also pledged robust security measures, particularly in light of the heightened interest surrounding the potential arrival of global football icon Ronaldo, a source said.
Ronaldo, who captains Al-Nassr and remains one of the most celebrated figures in football, has become the centerpiece of speculation.
Despite the buzz, club officials have not confirmed whether the five-time Ballon d’Or winner will travel to Goa for this match.
“They are here to inspect the State’s preparedness and will report back to their club,” the source said, adding that there is no credible word yet on Ronaldo’s travel plans.
Local fans and football enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting clarity, with ticket demand surging amid the hope of watching Ronaldo in action.
The Goa Football Association has also ramped up promotional efforts, while the government has alerted its officials and local authorities to brace for a potential influx of spectators and media.
As preparations intensify, the suspense over Ronaldo’s appearance continues to dominate headlines, adding a layer of intrigue to what promises to be another landmark sporting event in Goa.
