In a landmark achievement for Indian football, FC Goa have booked their place in the main round of the Asian Champions League Two after a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Oman’s Al Seeb in the qualification playoff. This marks the first time in history that two Indian clubs — FC Goa and Mohun Bagan Super Giant — will feature in the group stage of the continental competition’s second tier.
On a challenging pitch, FC Goa displayed a perfect blend of resilience and tactical discipline. Serbian midfielder Dejan Drazic opened the scoring in the 24th minute with a composed lob after Borja Herrera’s long pass sliced through Al Seeb’s defensive line. The Gaurs doubled their advantage in the 53rd minute when Javier Siverio headed home from close range following another moment of creative brilliance from Herrera.
Al Seeb, boasting nine players from the Oman national team, responded in the 61st minute through Nasser Sultan Al Rawahi, forcing FC Goa into a disciplined defensive shape for the remainder of the game. Employing a low block and smart game management, the Indian side saw out the win despite late pressure and seven minutes of stoppage time.
Key moments included a near miss from Siverio in the 81st minute and a controversial incident in the 43rd minute when Drazic was penalized for handball. Initially awarded as a penalty, the decision was downgraded to a free-kick after consultation with the assistant referee, though replays hinted at a different outcome.
Head coach Manolo Marquez praised his squad’s determination, noting that despite Al Seeb’s attacking quality, FC Goa were a constant threat in transition and inside the box. The win adds to a growing wave of optimism for Indian football following the women’s national team’s recent qualification for Asia’s top tournament.
