The highly anticipated AFC Champions League Two Group D fixture between Indian club FC Goa and Saudi giants Al Nassr is set to take place at the Al-Awwal Park in Riyadh. However, there remains significant uncertainty regarding the participation of their marquee player, Cristiano Ronaldo. Despite Al Nassr winning the first leg 2-1 in Goa last month without Ronaldo, the Portuguese superstar has yet to feature in any of the three matches in the group stage this season, including their recent home game against FC Istiklol of Tajikistan on September 17.
Ronaldo has not traveled with the team for the away match against FC Goa on October 22, due to a team management clause that allows him to opt out of such matches at his discretion. Although he has been actively scoring and playing for Al Nassr in the Saudi Pro League—recently netting two goals against Al Fayha—his absence from AFC Champions League matches has become a trend. As of now, there is no official confirmation whether Ronaldo will participate in the upcoming game against FC Goa on November 5, which could be a pivotal moment for Indian football fans eager to see him in action in Saudi Arabia.
The lack of clarity on Ronaldo's availability has sparked intense speculation among fans, with many eager to witness the global icon’s impact on Indian and Asian football. While his team is aiming to continue their unbeaten run and solidify their top position in Group D, the presence or absence of Ronaldo could significantly influence the outcome. Despite this uncertainty, FC Goa is preparing to face one of Asia’s most star-studded sides with confidence, bolstered by their recent strong performances in domestic competitions and their historic goal in the last AFC Champions League Two outing.
Also Read: AFC Champions League: FC Goa Face Tough Task Against Cristiano Ronaldo-Less Al Nassr
As the fixture approaches, fans and analysts will be closely monitoring updates from Al Nassr regarding Ronaldo’s participation. In the meantime, the match set for Wednesday promises to be a tense and exciting showdown—regardless of whether the Portuguese superstar takes the field. The game kicks off at 11:45 p.m. IST and will be broadcast live on FanCode in India and beIN Sports in Saudi Arabia.
This fixture not only offers a chance for FC Goa to test their mettle against elite Asian opposition but also to potentially see one of football’s greatest ever in action, if Ronaldo is cleared to play. The world awaits the final confirmation on his availability, which could make this match a historic moment for Indian football fans.
Also Read: Mirabai Chanu’s 49kg Weight Class Axed for 2028 Olympics: Star Lifter Forced to Bulk Up to 53kg