FC Goa drawn in Group D with Al-Nassr
Cristiano Ronaldo's potential debut in India at AFC Champions League
Speculations around Ronaldo's travel clauses for matches
Tournament format includes a double round-robin structure
The AFC Champions League Two 2025-26 group stage draw on August 15, 2025, in Kuala Lumpur has drawn international attention by placing FC Goa in Group D with Al-Nassr, featuring Cristiano Ronaldo, in a tournament structure that promises robust competition.
This tournament, previously known as the AFC Cup, now features 32 teams divided into eight groups across West and East regions. Indian clubs Mohun Bagan Super Giant and FC Goa have qualified for the main tournament, marking a significant milestone for Indian football.
AFC Champions League Two Groups
FC Goa were drawn into Group D alongside Al-Nassr (Saudi Arabia), Al-Zawraa (Iraq), and FC Istiklol (Tajikistan). FC Goa secured their group spot after defeating Al Seeb of Oman in a qualifying playoff. Al-Nassr, with star striker Cristiano Ronaldo, enters as a group favourite.
Additionally, Mohun Bagan Super Giant, the reigning Indian Super League champions, find themselves in Group C with Sepahan S.C. (Iran), Al-Hussein SC (Jordan), and Ahal FC (Turkmenistan).
Ronaldo’s Contract Extension And Potential Debut In India
Cristiano Ronaldo signed a two-year contract extension with Al-Nassr in June 2025, securing his stay at the Saudi club until 2027, when he turns 42. After lifting the UEFA Nations League title with Portugal, Ronaldo reiterated his commitment to Al-Nassr despite rumours of moves to other lucrative opportunities like the Club World Cup.
An appearance in Al-Nassr's away fixture against FC Goa would mark his first competitive match in India. Ronaldo’s potential debut on Indian soil would be a historic moment for fans and boost India’s profile in the tournament.
Unverified Travel Clause And Squad Management At Al-Nassr
There is significant speculation that Cristiano Ronaldo's contract might include a clause exempting him from travelling for away matches in the AFC Champions League Two. Reports driven by concerns over his age, match workload, and recovery needs suggest such a restriction, although neither the club nor Ronaldo’s representatives have confirmed it.
Al-Nassr are expected to manage player fatigue by rotating between main and reserve players during the group stage, a strategy that accommodates the demands of domestic and international competitions.
The inclusion of other high-profile internationals, such as Joao Felix and Marcelo Brozovic, further underscores the club’s balanced approach.
Confirming or denying the travel clause will directly impact whether Ronaldo makes his competitive debut in India.
Tournament Format And Detailed Match Schedule
The group stage kicks off on September 16, 2025, with opening matchdays scheduled for September 16–17. Teams will compete in a double round-robin home-and-away format, culminating on December 24, 2025.
This structure ensures that every team faces each opponent twice, offering Indian fans multiple opportunities to see international stars in action.
The knockout stages follow, beginning with the Round of 16 from February 10–19, 2026, then progressing to the quarterfinals, semifinals, and a final on May 16, 2026.
Fixture dates, particularly for anticipated clashes such as between Al-Nassr and FC Goa, will be released once the complete schedule is finalised by the AFC.
