Margao, Goa – FC Goa delivered a spirited performance but ultimately succumbed to a 2-1 defeat against Saudi Arabian giants Al Nassr in their AFC Champions League Two Group D match at the Fatorda Stadium on Wednesday.
Despite the absence of superstar Cristiano Ronaldo, Al Nassr’s quality shone through early, with goals from Angelo Gabriel (10′) and Haroune Camara (27′) giving the visitors a comfortable lead. However, the home side rallied just before halftime when substitute Brison Fernandes (41′) fired past the Al Nassr goalkeeper to halve the deficit. The goal, FC Goa’s first in the continental competition, ignited the home crowd and kept the Gaurs’ hopes alive.
The Indian side pressed for an equalizer in the second half, with the best chance falling to Boris Singh, who was denied in a one-on-one situation. Al Nassr, with stars like Sadio Mane and Joao Felix introduced later in the game, held firm to secure the 2-1 victory. The match ended on a difficult note for Goa, with David Timor receiving a straight red card in stoppage time.
Al Nassr maintain their perfect record at the top of Group D, while FC Goa remains at the bottom, still searching for their first poin
