What Cristiano Ronaldo playing against FC Goa could mean for Indian football?

Ronaldo is yet to play against an Indian club.

Despite Cristiano Ronaldo not travelling to India with Al-Nassr in their previous clash with FC Goa for the AFC Champions League Two competition, the Portuguese star could make a cameo against the Indian club in their second game.

In their first game, Al-Nassr cruised to a 2-1 victory at Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Goa. Many hoped that one of the greatest football players of all time would visit India, but Al-Nassr head coach Jorge Jesus confirmed that he had decided to rest the 40-year-old.

It was seen as disappointing news, as many Indian football fans were excitedly waiting to watch Cristiano Ronaldo for the first time in their life. However, they can still witness the former Real Madrid star play FC Goa in their next match.

Al-Nassr will host FC Goa on November 5 at Al-Awwal Park in Riyadh in their fourth game of the AFC Two competition, and many Indian fans could be travelling to Saudi Arabia to watch the greatest of all time in action.

However, for now, it’s doubtful that Cristiano Ronaldo will play. He has yet to participate in any AFC Two matches of the season. But what would it mean if he does play against the Indian club?

How does Cristiano Ronaldo’s participation benefit Indian football?

There are numerous benefits to Indian football, as his participation against FC Goa will significantly enhance the Indian club’s credentials. Given that they are playing against one of the greatest of all time, who has graced big competitions such as the UEFA Champions League in Europe.

Ronaldo’s fame is unmatchable in every aspect of his playing career, given the humongous status he has achieved. If he plays against FC Goa, then the Indian club will garner a lot of attention in India and across the globe. Cristiano Ronaldo’s image will dominate Indian media outlets even if he plays just for a few minutes.

In the first game against FC Goa, Sadio Mane came on as a substitute. Although he was unable to find the back of the net, he had a great experience. Following the match, the former Liverpool forward said he didn’t expect fans to turn up and further asserted that he might visit India again.

Also read: Al-Nassr’s Sadio Mane shares heartfelt message after visiting India for FC Goa clash in ACL 2

His comments were met with a lot of attention. If Ronaldo does the same, then there will be a massive Indian media spotlight on indian football as a whole. His positive comments after the game can certainly have a big impact on Indian football, which has never been in the limelight enough.

It will put the Indian club and the country’s football on the global map, which can inspire millions of Indians to possibly pursue a football career.

It will be interesting to see if Cristiano Ronaldo makes a cameo against FC Goa. Ultimately, it is a big opportunity for the Indian club to play against one of the greatest of all time.

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