The AFC Champions League Two 2025 begins with an exciting clash as Al Zawra’a SC face FC Goa on Wednesday, 26 November 2025 at 23:00 WIB. Hosted at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium (Fatorda), this match is expected to deliver intensity from kick-off, with both sides eager to secure the perfect start in the group stage.
FC Goa return to continental football after a four-year absence. Under coach Manolo Marquez, the Gaurs have rebuilt their identity and regained competitiveness following their 2020 success. Their comeback to the Asian stage signals a renewed ambition — a clear statement that Goa are ready to challenge at the highest level once again.
But the road ahead is not easy. Goa are placed in a tough group alongside Al Nassr, Istiklol, and Al Zawra’a. Securing three points in the opening match could be crucial for their knockout stage hopes.
FC Goa enter the tournament with strong confidence. Their new signings have blended quickly into the squad, highlighted by a convincing performance against Al Seeb in the playoff round. Their previous ACL run — where they held powerhouses like Al Rayyan and Al Wahda to draws — continues to inspire belief within the team.
Coach Marquez’s system is now well established, and his presence has been decisive in Goa’s resurgence. ACL2 arrives at an ideal moment, with squad chemistry and form on the rise.
On the opposite side, Al Zawra’a come into the match without a single competitive fixture this season, with the Iraqi League yet to begin — the same situation faced by Indian football. This means their first official match of the campaign will be against Goa, followed immediately by a tough fixture vs Mohun Bagan.
A former Iraqi champion, Al Zawra’a haven’t lifted a major title in recent years and are determined to restore their glory. A strong run in ACL2 could be the turning point after finishing second in last season’s league.
Both sides are expected to be at full strength with no major absences.
Predicted Starting XI — Al Zawra’a
Jalal Hassan (GK), Abdallah Nasib, Akam Hashem, Kadhim Raad, Dhurgham Ismail, Nizar Al-Rashdan, Mohammed Qasim, Clarence Bitang, Mahdi Al-Humaidan, Hasan Abdulkareem, Ali Yousif
Predicted Starting XI — FC Goa
Hrithik Tiwari (GK), Nim Dorjee Tamang, Boris Singh, Pol Moreno, Aakash Sangwan, Borja Herrera, David Timor, Udanta Singh, Iker Guarrotxena, Dejan Drazic, Javier Siverio
Goa hold a clear advantage in match rhythm and squad readiness, further strengthened by home support. However, Al Zawra’a are a seasoned continental campaigner and will not go down easily.
Expect Goa to play on the front foot, while Al Zawra’a will likely respond with a compact structure and counter-attacks.
Predicted Final Score:
Al Zawra’a 1 – 2 FC Goa
Watch Al Zawra’a vs FC Goa — AFC Champions League Two 2025 via the official broadcaster:
➡ BeIN Sports
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