In what was a landmark night for Indian football, FC Goa scripted history by finishing the league stage of the Indian Super League (ISL) 2019-20 season at the top to become the first Indian club to reach the AFC Champions League group stage.
It was a momentous achievement for the most consistent football club in the ISL since its inception. Except for the 2016 season, where they finished rock-bottom, the Gaurs have always made it to the play-offs of the tournament.
After missing out on winning the title in the first three editions, Goa had parted ways with legendary Brazilian footballer Zico and had brought in former FC Barcelona assistant coach Sergio Lobera to replace him at the helm.