Cristiano Ronaldo to play in India? Al Nassr drawn with FC Goa in AFC Champions League Two | Football News
Cristiano Ronaldo could face an Indian club for the first time in his career, with his team Al Nassr drawn in the same AFC Champions League Two group as FC Goa. The group stage draw, held on August 15, placed the Saudi side in Group D alongside Goa, Iraq’s Al Zawra’a, and Tajikistan’s FC Istiklol. The draw raises hopes among fans of seeing the Portuguese star play in India during the 2025-26 season. However, Ronaldo’s appearance in the country is not guaranteed, with reports suggesting his contract includes conditions on away travel for the tournament. The No 7 can opt out of away matches as per reports. For 40-year-old Ronaldo, the new campaign is another shot at the Saudi Pro League title. The trophy has eluded him since joining Al Nassr in 2022 after leaving Manchester United.
Al-Nassr’s AFC Champions League Two group (Screengrab)
He recently extended his stay with the side, penning a contract that will keep him at the club until 2027. In June, he led Portugal to victory in the UEFA Nations League, defeating Spain in the final. If he stays fit and available, the clash against FC Goa would mark Ronaldo’s first competitive meeting with an Indian side. Goa sealed their place in the tournament by beating Oman’s Al Saeb 2-1 in the qualifiers, with goals from Dejan Drazic and Javier Siverio.Mohun Bagan Super Giant will also feature in the competition, drawn into Group D with Sepahan SC, Al Hussein, and Ahal FC. They qualified by winning the 2024-25 ISL Shield.
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The possibility of both Lionel Messi and Ronaldo visiting India in the same season has set up a potentially historic year for football fans in the country. But for now, whether the Al Nassr captain takes the field on Indian soil will depend on how the fixtures and contractual clauses take shape.
