Tamir Shakirov
13 August 2026, the Main Arena of Arkadag city, Turkmenistan, hosted the preliminary stage match of the AFC Champions League Two. The champion of Turkmenistan, FC Arkadag, secured a convincing 3-0 victory over the Indian club FC Goa.
The match drew immense interest from football fans. The 10,000-capacity stadium, located in the picturesque and ultra-modern city of Arkadag, was completely filled. The sold-out stands and the stunning panoramic mountain views created an unforgettable atmosphere of a true international sports celebration.
The home team approached this decisive clash under the guidance of head coach Mergen Orazov. FC Arkadag’s starting lineup featured Rustem Ahallyyev, Mekan Saparov, Abdy Bashimov, Bayram Atayev, Rahman Myratberdiyev, Resul Hojayev, Ybrayym Mammedov, Velmyrat Ballakov, Begench Akmamedov, Arzuvguly Sapargulyyev, and Yazgylych Gurbanov.
The Indian squad FC Goa took to the pitch under head coach Gouramangi Singch. The visitors’ starting eleven included Sandesh Jhingan, Alex Vallejo Minguez, Tomba Haobam, Christian Isabel, Perdro Galardon, Isak Vanlalruatfela, Udanta Singch Kumam, Franchu, Sitroy Carvalho, Bob Jackson Raj, and Akash Konsam.
From the opening minutes, the Turkmen club took control of the game, displaying well-coordinated football.
The Indiaтn team attempted to absorb the pressure, but FC Arkadag’s organized attacks repeatedly broke through their defense. To the cheers of 10,000 spectators, goals displayed on the stadium scoreboard were scored by Rahman Myratberdiyev, Arzuvguly Sapargulyyev, and Meylis Diniyev.
The resounding 3-0 victory guaranteed FC Arkadag’s advancement to the main stage of the AFC Champions League Two, adding another brilliant chapter to the history of Turkmen football. ///nCa, 13 August 2026
