FC Goa secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Al Seeb Club of Oman in a tense AFC Champions League Two 2025-26 preliminary tie on Wednesday, earning their place in the tournament’s group stage. The clash, held at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Goa, saw the home side display resilience and composure to withstand a late push from the 2022 AFC Cup champions.
The visitors from Oman signaled their intent early, with Nasser Al Rawahi forcing a crucial clearance from FC Goa defender Pol Moreno just two minutes into the game. Zahir Al Aghbari followed up with a close-range effort, but the Indian side’s defense held firm.
Despite early pressure, FC Goa gradually found their rhythm. In the ninth minute, Dejan Drazic had a golden opportunity to open the scoring after breaking free on the left, only to fire a tame shot straight into the gloves of Al Seeb goalkeeper Ahmed Al Rawahi.
The deadlock was finally broken in the 24th minute. Spanish midfielder Borja Herrera launched a long, accurate pass to Drazic, who skillfully beat his marker and chipped the ball over Ahmed Al Khamisi for a composed finish, putting FC Goa 1-0 up.
Drazic continued to trouble the Omani defense in the second half. His fierce strike in the 52nd minute forced a strong save from Al Rawahi. Just minutes later, FC Goa capitalized on their dominance. Herrera delivered a precise corner into the box, and Javier Siverio rose highest to power home a header, doubling the Gaurs’ lead.
Al Seeb responded swiftly. In the 60th minute, a well-timed cutback from Ali Al Busaidi found Nasser Al Rawahi, who slotted home from close range to reduce the deficit. Despite renewed pressure from the visitors, FC Goa held on to their lead with disciplined defending.
With the victory, FC Goa becomes the second Indian club to enter the group stages of the AFC Champions League Two 2025-26, joining Mohun Bagan Super Giant, the 2024-25 Indian Super League Shield winners.
Both teams will learn their group stage opponents on August 15 when the official draw takes place. For now, FC Goa can celebrate a significant milestone in their continental journey, showcasing growing strength for Indian clubs on the Asian stage.
