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FC Goa Faces Stern Test Against Tajik Giants FC Istiklol in AFC Champions League
1 Oct
Summary
- FC Goa lost their opening ACL 2 match against Iraqi side Al-Zawraa
- FC Istiklol suffered a heavy 0-5 defeat against Al Nassr in their first game
- Both teams will look to bounce back from their opening losses

On October 1st, 2025, Indian Super League club FC Goa will travel to Tajikistan to face off against local giants FC Istiklol in their second group-stage match of the AFC Champions League Two. The Gaurs, led by coach Manolo Marquez, are looking to change the momentum after their opening 0-2 loss against Iraqi side Al-Zawraa.
FC Goa qualified for the ACL 2 following their triumph in the 2025 Super Cup and a victory over Oman's Al Seeb Club in the preliminary stage. However, they now face a stern test against the 13-time Tajik League champions, who are also seeking to bounce back from their own 0-5 defeat against Al Nassr in their first ACL 2 match.
With both teams aiming to secure their first points in the competition, the clash between FC Goa and FC Istiklol promises to be an intriguing encounter. The Gaurs will need to overcome FC Istiklol's strong home record if they hope to shift the momentum in their favor and keep their continental campaign alive.