FC Goa management ramp up security measures for Cristiano Ronaldo’s possible arrival with Al Nassr in ACL2

Goa police assure readiness for Ronaldo’s visit.

The buzz around Indian football has reached a fever pitch as FC Goa prepare to host Saudi giants Al Nassr in the AFC Champions League Two on October 22. The fixture at Fatorda is already historic, but the anticipation has grown even further with the possibility of Cristiano Ronaldo making the trip to Goa.

Although the Portuguese superstar has not featured in Al Nassr’s first two group-stage games, fans across the country are dreaming of seeing him step onto Indian soil for the first time in his legendary career.

Even the state authorities are not taking chances. Goa police have assured the club that all security arrangements will be in place, regardless of whether confirmation about Ronaldo’s arrival comes early or at the last minute.

“Unless there’s confirmation on Ronaldo arriving, we cannot plan for security, but even if we get a late call, it can be managed,” said SP South Goa, Tikam Singh Verma, after a meeting with the club earlier this week, speaking to TOI. He confirmed that more personnel would be deployed for the game and that the state government would step in if Ronaldo lands in Goa.

FC Goa also addressed the situation.

“In view of the expected attendance, we agreed with Goa police to strengthen police and private security deployment and to open additional entry gates to facilitate safe, staggered ingress,” said CEO Ravi Puskur speaking to TOI. He added that Ronaldo’s visa application has already been submitted at Al Nassr’s request.

October remains a decisive month for FC Goa

October 2025 is shaping up as a defining period for FC Goa and Indian football. With Mohun Bagan withdrawing, Goa remain India’s only representative in the AFC Champions League Two, and their performance will play a key role in retaining the nation’s direct qualification spot for next season.

While the continental challenge is daunting, it also brings a chance to showcase Indian football on a bigger stage. A clash with Al Nassr at Fatorda promises to be historic, as fans hope to witness Cristiano Ronaldo or, at the very least, his star-studded teammates Sadio Mane, Joao Felix, Kingsley Coman, Marcelo Brozovic, and Inigo Martinez under the Goan sky.

Also Read: Can FC Goa still qualify for AFC Champions League 2 knockouts after 2-0 defeat to Istiklol?

FC Goa at the bottom of the table

Goa are bottom of Group D after two defeats against Istiklol and Al Zawraa. The Gaurs have conceded four goals and failed to score any. Al Nassr lead the group with two wins, while Istiklol and Al Zawraa sit on three points each.

Despite the odds, fans remain hopeful of an upset. For Goa, this is a must-win clash to keep knockout hopes alive. Their attacking woes must end, and defensive errors must be fixed. Anything less than a point could shut the door on their ACL2 campaign.

For more updates, follow Khel Now on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.