‘Once-in-a-lifetime’ – FC Goa to host Cristiano Ronaldo and Al-Nassr in September | Football News
Cristiano Ronaldo is set to visit India later this year, as Al-Nassr will take on FC Goa in what is being billed as one of the most significant fixtures in Indian club football history. The Saudi Arabian side has been drawn in Group D of the Asian Champions League Two alongside FC Goa, Tajikistan’s Istiklol, and Iraq’s Al-Zawraa. The top two from each group will progress to the next round when the competition kicks off in September. “This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime moment for FC Goa,” club CEO Ravi Puskur told The Associated Press. “Hosting Al-Nassr and Cristiano Ronaldo is arguably the biggest game in our history.” Ronaldo, 40, joined Al-Nassr in 2022 but is still chasing his first major trophy with the Riyadh-based club. The team, which also features Sadio Mane and newly signed Joao Felix from Chelsea, is expected to arrive at full strength. Puskur believes the match has the potential to be a landmark for Indian football, offering a platform to showcase the country’s ability to compete on the continental stage. “This is historic for Indian football. We are here on merit, and matches like this help us become part of the sport’s biggest narratives,” he said.
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The timing is significant, as domestic football in India faces uncertainty. The 2025-26 ISL season has been suspended amid a dispute over the league’s organising agreement, with several clubs halting salaries or operations. Puskur stressed that beyond the financial benefits, the fixture could drive long-term growth. “It’s an opportunity to attract global attention, generate sponsorship interest, and reignite fan engagement — all of which are vital for the future of the sport here,” he added.
