Renowned Brazilian football star Neymar might have a chance to play an official match in India for the first time in his career. Mumbai City FC, a team from the Indian Super League (ISL), has been drawn in the same group as Al-Hilal in the recent draw of the AFC Champions League. Al-Hilal, a highly successful club in the tournament's history, has made significant additions to its squad during the transfer window, including Neymar and other notable players.
Mumbai City FC finds itself in Group D alongside Al-Hilal. This Saudi Arabian club, with a rich history of success, has welcomed stars like Neymar, Ruben Neves, Kalidou Koulibaly, and Sergej Milinkovic-Savic during the recent transfer window. The group also includes FC Nassaji Mazandaran from Iran and Uzbekistan's PFC Navbahor Namangan.
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Neymar's move to Al-Hilal has generated significant excitement. He was greeted by thousands of enthusiastic fans in Riyadh during his unveiling at the King Fahd International Stadium, which can hold up to 68,000 spectators.
While Neymar missed Al Hilal's game against Al-Fayha, he is anticipated to make his debut against Al-Raed later this week. Mumbai City FC will host their home games at Pune's Balewadi Stadium.
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The AFC Champions League groups are as follows:
- Group A: Al-Faiha FC, Pakhtakor, Ahla FC, Al Ain FC
- Group B: Al-Saad, Nasaf, Al-Faisaly, Sharjah FC
- Group C: Al-Ittihad, Sepahan SC, Air Force Club, AGMK FC
- Group D: Al-Hilal, FC Nassaji Mazandaran, Mumbai City FC, PFC Navbahor Namangan
- Group E: Persepolis, Al-Duhail, Istiklol, Al-Nassr
- Group F: Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors, Bangkok United, Lion City Sailors, Kitchee
- Group G: Terengganu FC, Bali United, Stallion Laguna, Central Coast Mariners
- Group H: Haiphong FC, Hougang United, Sabah FC, PSM Makassar
- Group I: CPK, Tainan City, FC Ulaanbaatar, Taichung Futuro
This exciting development opens the door for fans in India to witness top-notch football and potentially see Neymar in action on Indian soil.