Indian football clubs Mohun Bagan Super Giant and FC Goa are ready to showcase their strength on the continental stage as they begin their AFC Champions League 2 (ACL2) campaigns this week. After months of off-field uncertainties, ranging from court cases to FIFA’s stern warnings and financial concerns, the focus has finally shifted back to the pitch where Indian teams continue to punch above their weight.
Mohun Bagan will kick off their campaign on Tuesday at the iconic Salt Lake Stadium against Turkmenistan’s Ahal FK, while FC Goa host Iraq’s powerhouse club Al-Zawraa the following day. Both Indian sides enter the competition with determination to prove they can compete beyond domestic dominance.
Head coach Jose Molina of Mohun Bagan stated, “Our aim is to show we are not just a strong side in India but a competitive force in Asia.” Meanwhile, FC Goa’s coach Manolo Marquez emphasized the importance of such tournaments for growth: “For us, qualifying was the first step. Playing stronger teams guarantees development and now we have six such matches, including three at home.”
Mohun Bagan, who previously withdrew from an Asian tournament over travel safety concerns, are targeting a deep run this time. The squad has been bolstered by the arrival of Brazilian forward Robson Robinho and Indian defenders Mehtab Singh and Abhishek Singh Tekcham. However, they will miss key attacker Manvir Singh due to injury.
FC Goa face an even tougher challenge with several players unavailable including Sandesh Jhingan, Seriton Fernandes, Mohammed Yasir, and Ronney Kharbudon. New signing Jerry Lalrinzuala is expected to be on the bench. Despite setbacks, Marquez believes his team can replicate the fighting spirit shown in their 2-1 win against Oman’s Al-Seeb in August that secured ACL2 qualification.
Ahal FK, currently second in Turkmenistan’s Yokary Liga, arrive in Kolkata with confidence. Coach Eziz Awamuhamedov confirmed his team’s intent, saying, “We are here to take three points.” With half the squad featuring in Turkmenistan’s Olympic or senior national teams, Ahal are expected to provide stiff competition.
Both Indian clubs draw inspiration from past continental successes, including East Bengal’s famous 6-2 victory over Iraq’s Al-Zawraa in 1993, Dempo SC’s AFC Cup semifinal run in 2008, and Bengaluru FC’s final appearance in 2016. Mohun Bagan midfielder Anirudh Thapa believes India’s recent third-place finish in the CAFA Nations Cup is added motivation for the squad.
While challenges remain, both Mohun Bagan and FC Goa are determined to make an impression in ACL2. With passionate fans behind them and renewed energy on the pitch, Indian football may be on the verge of another historic chapter in Asia.