FC Goa Players Hold Silent Protest During ACL 2 Match Against Istiklol

In a symbolic show of protest against the poor condition that Indian football finds itself in, FC Goa players protested silently during their AFC Champions League 2 game against Tajikistan’s FC Istiklol, at the Fatorda Stadium in Madgaon on Wednesday.

As the referee signalled kickoff at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, the Gaurs’ players stood still, refraining from play to spotlight the ‘deepening uncertainty’ gripping and paralysing the Indian football ecosystem.

The Indian Super League club later issued a statement on social media, explaining that the gesture was a symbolic appeal for clarity on the future of the domestic game.

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“This action was solely intended to draw attention to the broader challenges

facing the domestic football ecosystem. It wasn’t directed at our opponents FC Istiklol, the AFC, or the AFC Champions League Two, all of whom we respect greatly,” FC Goa wrote on their social media handles.

With the Master Rights Agreement between the All India Football Federation and Football Sports Development Limited for the Indian Super League having lapsed earlier this year, the nation is without a domestic football league.

The uncertainty has spilt over into the I-League as well, leaving clubs, players and staff in limbo without a clear roadmap. Recent reports of the City Football Group ending its partnership with Mumbai City FC have further underlined the waning confidence in the Indian football ecosystem.

The crisis has also had a significant impact on the Indian national team. The senior men’s side couldn’t qualify for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup, leaving them without competitive football until at least November 2027.

A three-year stretch without meaningful games is a situation no serious footballing country can afford.

The silent protest was a physical expression of the anger and frustration felt by Indian players over the AIFF’s inability to reach a consensus and restart domestic competitions.