PANAJI: It’s matchday in Goa, and anticipation is at fever pitch for the AFC Champions League Two clash between FC Goa and Saudi giants Al-Nassr. Both teams concluded intense training sessions yesterday, fine-tuning their tactics for the highly anticipated encounter at the Fatorda Stadium.
The late confirmation that five-time Ballon d’Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo would sit out the India tour cast a cloud over thousands of fans who had hoped to see their hero in action. Addressing the decision, Al-Nassr head coach Jorge Jesus explained, “Cristiano has stayed back in Riyadh to rest and prepare for our next Saudi Pro League fixture. We decided to manage his game time carefully, especially for matches outside Riyadh. He’s targeting a sixth World Cup appearance, and we’re supporting that goal.”
The announcement also sparked a wave of frustration online, with several fans putting their tickets up for resale, which had been originally bought just to see Ronaldo play live.
Still, the atmosphere around Fatorda remains electric. The stadium is expected to be packed to capacity, with Al-Nassr’s star-studded lineup featuring João Félix, Sadio Mané, Kingsley Coman, and Íñigo Martínez ensuring a world-class spectacle.
FC Goa head coach Manolo Márquez and captain Brandon Fernandes urged focus on the task ahead rather than the Ronaldo buzz. “Of course, everyone wanted to see Ronaldo, but this is still a world-class team,” Márquez said. “Our focus is on the eleven players on the pitch, and we’re ready to give our best. Fatorda will be packed, Ronaldo or not. This is a chance to show how far Indian football has come,” added Brandon.
Among the fans heading to the stadium, reactions were a mix of disappointment and pride. Yvonne Fernandes from Mapusa, a devoted Ronaldo fan, admitted it was surreal to see a team like Al-Nassr play FC Goa. She reflected, “Yes, it’s a little disappointing that Ronaldo isn’t here, but the excitement is still real. We’re the only Indian team representing Asia at this level, and that’s something every Goan should be proud of.” She went on to highlight the talent on the pitch, saying she’d watched João Félix play for Portugal and Chelsea, and “his current form for Al-Nassr, Ronaldo or not, has been incredible. My message to the FC Goa players is simple: enjoy every second. Whether we win or lose, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to share the pitch with players like Mané, Coman, and Martínez. This is history being made right here in Goa.”
Anand Govekar from Anjuna shared a more analytical perspective. While he understood why Ronaldo would be absent, he emphasized that Al-Nassr remained formidable. “Cristiano Ronaldo’s presence on the field always adds an unmatched sense of excitement and prestige, and many supporters were genuinely looking forward to witnessing the GOAT in person. I completely understand the decision from a professional standpoint. At this stage of his career, careful workload management and certain clauses in his contract make him unavailable for the away match. That said, Al-Nassr remains a strong and well-balanced side and will continue to perform at a high level even in his absence.”
He added his anticipation for the match, noting the attacking stars on display. “I’m excited to see how Al-Nassr performs without Ronaldo, especially with stars like Sadio Mané, João Félix, and Kingsley Coman leading the attack. Their pace and creativity could make the match thrilling, and the atmosphere at Fatorda will surely be electric. Also looking forward to watching other talents like Iñigo Martínez and Mohamed Simakan in action. Well, that’s the beauty of football, and anything is possible! Only after the 90th minute will we know which team comes out on top. Good luck to both FC Goa and Al-Nassr.”
Kick-off tonight is expected to draw one of the season’s largest crowds, as fans rally behind FC Goa in what promises to be a defining night for Goan and Indian football.
