Wed Dec 24 16:10:00 UTC 2025: Summary:
FC Goa, an Indian Super League (ISL) team, staged a silent protest at the beginning of their AFC Champions League Two (ACL2) match against FC Istiklol of Tajikistan. The players remained still for the first few seconds to highlight the “deepening uncertainty” and administrative issues plaguing Indian football. The club clarified on social media that the protest was a plea for clarity and not a disrespect towards their opponents or the AFC.
News Article:
FC Goa Stages Silent Protest at ACL2 Match to Highlight Indian Football Crisis
CHENNAI – In a striking display of solidarity, FC Goa players stood motionless during the opening seconds of their AFC Champions League Two (ACL2) match against FC Istiklol on Tuesday night. The symbolic protest aimed to draw international attention to the ongoing crisis and uncertainty surrounding Indian football.
As the referee signaled the start of the match at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, the FC Goa team refrained from active play, sending a clear message about the issues facing the domestic football scene.
“This action was solely intended to draw attention to the broader challenges facing the domestic football ecosystem,” the club stated on social media.
The club emphasized that the protest was not directed at their opponents or the AFC, but rather a desperate attempt to highlight the impact of administrative and commercial deadlocks on the ISL and I-League, and the players’ and staff’s growing concerns.
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