FC Goa Gear Up for Crucial AFC Champions League Two Clash Against Al Zawraa

by Chandler D'silva November 26, 2025

FC Goa return to continental action tonight as they face Al Zawraa SC in a must-win AFC Champions League Two 2025 Group D match at the Al-Zawraa Stadium, with kickoff at 9:30 PM IST. The game is crucial for both teams, who remain mathematically alive in the competition but must win to keep their hopes alive.

With four matches played, FC Goa know they must win their final two games to stay in the qualification race. Al Zawraa face the same challenge, making this encounter a high-pressure contest for both sides.

Although Goa haven’t had as much recent competitive action as their Iraqi opponents, the team has worked consistently through training sessions. Their strong performances in the AIFF Super Cup, including wins over Jamshedpur FC and Inter Kashi, showed the quality they can produce when they find rhythm.

Head coach Manolo Márquez highlighted the team’s belief and clarity:

“It’s just the fifth game of the competition and we still have small chances to qualify if we win both matches. We know Al Zawraa also needs to win, so it will be a difficult game. But we’ve prepared like any other match. Our intent is always to win, not to sit back.”

For FC Goa, tonight is not only about staying in the competition — it’s also a chance to claim their first points in the group stage before returning home for their final game in December.

Winger Udanta Singh spoke about the experience of playing in Asia and the team’s determination:

“To be honest, it’s a great experience facing big teams in Asia. It’s our last away match of the group, so we want to finish strong.”

As the Gaurs step out under the lights in Baghdad, their goal is simple — play with intent, fight for every moment, and keep the campaign alive heading into a decisive final match in Goa.

This clash holds immense importance for FC Goa’s AFC Champions League Two journey, and a positive result in Iraq could spark the momentum they need at the perfect time.

Picture Credits: FC Goa Media

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