FC Goa vs Al Zawraa Match Preview, Prediction, Lineups and Livestream

FC Goa vs Al Zawraa match will be in the spotlight as the Super Cup champions kick off their AFC Champions League 2 campaign at home. After defeating Al Seeb in the playoff round, the Gaurs will now face Iraqi powerhouse Al Zawraa SC on Wednesday, September 17, at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Goa.

Match Details

Tournament/Series – AFC Champions League 2 (ACL 2) 2025-26
Match – FC Goa vs Al Zawraa SC
Date & Time – Wednesday, September 17, 7:30 PM IST
Live Streaming – FanCode App (India)

FC Goa vs Al Zawraa Preview

FC Goa are back on the Asian stage after four years and have the momentum to make a strong impact. Under Manolo Marquez, the Gaurs defeated Al Seeb in the playoff round to earn their spot in the group stage. With new signings like Pol Moreno and Dejan Drazic adding depth, Goa will look to start positively in what is considered a tough group featuring Al Nassr, Istiklol, and Al Zawraa.

Key forward Javier Siverio impressed in the playoff match by scoring a decisive goal, proving his worth in front of goal. Alongside playmaker Iker Guarrotxena and experienced midfielder Borja Herrera, FC Goa have a balanced squad capable of competing at the continental level.

On the other hand, Al Zawraa SC will be playing their first competitive game of the season as the Iraq Stars League hasn’t yet begun. Despite finishing second last season, the Iraqi giants have not lifted a trophy in years and will be under pressure to perform. Their key player, Hasan Abdulkareem, contributed 9 goals and 11 assists last season, making him a real threat to Goa’s defence.

This fixture will test Goa’s preparation against a technically strong side that thrives on counter-attacks. The home advantage at Fatorda could play a crucial role in giving the Gaurs an early edge in the campaign.

FC Goa vs Al Zawraa Recent Form (Last 5 Matches)

FC Goa – W-W-W
Al Zawraa – D-W-L

FC Goa vs Al Zawraa H2H Record

This will be the first-ever competitive meeting between FC Goa and Al Zawraa.

FC Goa vs Al Zawraa Probable Playing XI

FC Goa XI: Hrithik Tiwari (GK), Nim Dorjee Tamang, Boris Singh, Pol Moreno, Aakash Sangwan, Borja Herrera, David Timor, Udanta Singh, Iker Guarrotxena, Dejan Drazic, Javier Siverio

Al Zawraa XI: Jalal Hassan (GK), Abdallah Nasib, Akam Hashem, Kadhim Raad, Dhurgham Ismail, Nizar Al-Rashdan, Mohammed Qasim, Clarence Bitang, Mahdi Al-Humaidan, Hasan Abdulkareem, Ali Yousif

FC Goa vs Al Zawraa Match Prediction

FC Goa have home advantage and momentum after their playoff victory over Al Seeb. The team looks more settled under Manolo Marquez, with key players like Guarrotxena, Herrera, and Siverio in form. The Gaurs also have a supportive home crowd that will push them forward in this crucial opening fixture.

Al Zawraa, though historically one of Iraq’s biggest clubs, lack competitive match rhythm this season and could struggle to adapt quickly in Goa’s humid conditions. While their talisman Hasan Abdulkareem remains a big threat, Goa’s organised structure and attacking depth give them the edge.

Predicted Winner: FC Goa
Score Prediction: FC Goa 2-1 Al Zawraa SC