Hero Indian Super League (Hero ISL) club FC Goa will play their first-ever AFC Champions League campaign in India, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) confirmed on Thursday. The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has been given for the hosting rights of the Group E (West Region) matches and they will now be held in Goa, the venue for the ongoing 2020-21 Hero ISL season as well.

The Gaurs became the first team from India to get direct qualification for the continental tournament after finishing at the top of the points table in the league phase of Hero Indian Super League (Hero ISL) 2019-20. They have been grouped alongside Iran's Persepolis FC, Qatar's Al Rayyan SC and the fourth team will be the winner of the West region play-offs. Their matches are scheduled to take place from April 14-30.

“On behalf of the Asian football family, I would like to thank all our Member Associations for their interest in hosting our club competitions and commitment towards ensuring we continue to place the safety and wellbeing of our players, teams, and officials at the forefront of all our priorities,” Dato’ Windsor John, the AFC general secretary, said.

“The AFC is most grateful for the support of the AFC Competitions Committee and our commercial partners and we will continue to safeguard the interests of all stakeholders as we strive to ensure a safe and successful 2021 club football season.”

Earlier this month, the AFC also announced that ATK Mohun Bagan will be playing their 2021 AFC Cup Group D (South Zone) matches in Male, Maldives.