Footballer sensation Cristiano Ronaldo is likely to make his long-awaited debut on Indian soil, as Portuguese superstar’s club Al Nassr drawn against FC Goa in the group stage of the AFC Champions League Two.
The draw, held on Friday, placed the Indian Super League (ISL) side in Group D alongside Al Nassr, Iraq’s Al Zawraa SC, and Tajikistan’s FC Istiklol.
The tournament will be played in a home-and-away round-robin format, which means Al Nassr will have to travel to Goa for one of their fixtures. This sets up the mouthwatering prospect of Ronaldo, a five-time Ballon d’Or winner and one of the greatest footballers of all time, playing at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium (Fatorda Stadium) in Margao.
If the 39-year-old makes the trip, it would mark the first time Ronaldo plays a competitive match in India. His long-time rival Lionel Messi did feature in a friendly for Argentina against Venezuela in Kolkata back in 2011, but Indian fans have never had the chance to witness Ronaldo live in action.
Will Ronaldo Play in Goa?
The big question, however, remains whether Ronaldo will indeed travel for the clash. Reports in gossip circles have suggested that his contract at Al Nassr includes a clause allowing him to skip away fixtures in the AFC Champions League Two. Yet, there has been no official confirmation of such a condition.
As things stand, there is no rule or restriction preventing the Portuguese legend from coming to India. However, given his heavy workload and the fact that FC Goa are considered one of the weaker sides in the group, there is a chance that Al Nassr’s coaching staff may decide to rest him for the trip.
Should he make the journey, Ronaldo’s presence would represent a landmark moment for Indian football. His appearance could bring unprecedented global attention to the ISL and the country’s footballing landscape.
How FC Goa Reached the Group Stage
FC Goa earned their place in Group D the hard way. They defeated Oman’s Al Seeb in a playoff to secure qualification, after having booked their playoff berth by winning the Super Cup. For Goa, the challenge of facing world-class opposition like Al Nassr presents both an opportunity and a daunting test.
The Goan club will not only be carrying the hopes of their fans but also representing Indian football on a continental stage. Matches against clubs of Al Nassr’s stature, particularly with players like Ronaldo in their ranks, promise to be special occasions.
India’s other representatives, Mohun Bagan Super Giant, have been placed in Group C. They will face Iran’s Sepahan SC, Jordan’s Al Hussein, and Turkmenistan’s Ahal FC. Mohun Bagan secured their spot in the group stage by clinching the ISL Shield in the 2024-25 season.
As the draw sets the stage for high-profile encounters, all eyes will now be on whether Cristiano Ronaldo decides to step foot in India for the first time. If he does, it could be a moment that Indian football fans will remember for generations.
Pic Credit (Screebgrab: YouTube Prudent Media Goa)
