Indian Super League side FC Goa has made history by participating in the AFC Champions League. FC Goa was in group E of the ACL with heavyweights of Asian Football.
Teams like Persepolis FC from Iran, Al Wahda, and Al Rayyan who have thrice the budget of FC Goa were also in that group. But, Goa was nowhere near in the mood of going down without a fight. However, Goa got knocked out of the tournament but the Gaurs made a solid impression of their caliber against the giants.
The Gaurs accumulated 3 points in 6 matches finishing the group stage by being 3rd. Having 2 draws against Al Rayyan (Qatar) and one against Al Wahda(UAE). while losing two matches against the runners-up of last season Persepolis FC(Iran).
While Goa draws 3 matches against the two teams. The Gaurs also came pretty close to defeat Al Rayyan. If the Gaurs have managed to do then they would have created history by becoming the first team from India to secure a win in the ACL. But, Goa’s intentions got ruined because of Ali Feridoon who scored in the 89th minute and equalized the score.
However, Goa made another record by scoring for the first time in the ACL against Persepolis FC. Thanks to Edu Bedia’s header Goa managed to score their first goal. Gaurs head Coach Juan Ferrando also said that it is a “dream come true” for them. So they were looking for this opportunity to gain as much experience as they can from this tournament.
Positive outcomes of the tournament as FC Goa Complete Their First ACL Journey.
One of the major achievements for FC Goa from this League is the experience. Especially the exposure Dheeraj got, no doubt that Dheeraj has been the best player on the pitch for the Gaurs. Making 25 saves in 6 matches and keeping 2 clean sheets. The stats speak for themselves. Not only him, players like I Pandita, B Fernandez have also gained a lot from the fixtures.
The outcomes from this league will definitely help FC Goa grow even more, and this experience will come in handy for sure in the Indian Super League. It would be interesting to see Goa’s next season.
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