ACL2: Goa look to open their account in Iraq

Results don’t accurately reflect FC Goa’s performance in the AFC Champions League Two this season.

Despite four consecutive defeats against some of Asia’s best teams, which includes Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr FC, Manolo Marquez’s team has put up a spirited show, even though the odds have been stacked against them.

Goa now have an opportunity to open their account, as they take on the might of Iraqi side Al Zawraa in Baghdad on Wednesday.




When Goa opened their campaign in Asia’s second tier club competition at home in Sept, they were as good as Al Zaraa, but eventually fell short, conceding one before the break and another in the dying minutes.

Without any domestic matches or proper preparation, Goa’s campaign never really took off. Another 2-0 defeat followed, this time away against FC Istiklol. However at home against Al-Nassr, Goa gave everything in their 1-2 defeat where Brison Fernandes managed to get on the scoresheet. The return leg in Riyadh was another learning experience as Goa lost by four goals.

Manolo, however, remains confident and carries a glimmer of hope.

“It’s just the fifth game in the competition. They have a chance, and we still have small chances to qualify, if we win both games,” said Manolo during the pre-match media interaction on Tuesday.

As expected, Al-Nassr are leading group D with 12 points after four wins in a row. The Saudi Pro League giants will confirm progression by avoiding defeat against Istiklol, but will view anything other than victory as failure after a brilliant first four matches.

Al Zawraa are second on six points along with Istiklol in third, also on six.

Goa have no points to show but are looking to finish their last away game on a strong note.

“It is true that we compete very good in most of the games. Even in the first game against Al Zawraa, I think we played a good game with similar chances to both teams. And we know now, two months later, the game is completely different,” said Manolo.

Al Zawraa has had a new coach since Oct in Egyptian Emad El-Nahhas. Manolo has no doubt about his opponent’s style and quality, but is wary of the change in their offensive approach since the two teams met at Fatorda.

“It looks like their players are enjoying it a little more on the ground and it will be difficult. But I think, and I hope, it will be difficult for them as well,” said Manolo.

Although there is some anxiety in the Goa dressing room about the start of the Indian Super League (ISL), the players look focused, according to experienced winger Udanta Singh.

“For all of us, it is an important game,” said Udanta. “Every game is important, so you never know when we can (win and) qualify for the next round. We have prepared well. It’s not about winning or losing, but we must give everything on the field.”

The kick off is 9.30pm.

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