Paro FC's Resilience Tested in AFC Challenge League Group Stage
The AFC Challenge League Group Stage is well underway, and Paro FC is demonstrating tremendous fighting spirit in this elite continental competition. Our team kicked off their campaign in Group A with a challenging encounter against Al-Shabab FC from Oman, narrowly falling to a 1-0 defeat at the Changlimithang Stadium.
Matchday 1 Recap: A Narrow Loss to Al-Shabab FC
The opening match against the Omani debutants, Al-Shabab FC, proved to be a tough battle. Our squad entered the match fully aware of the high standards required at this level. Despite a determined effort and the unwavering support of our home crowd, a single goal—a penalty converted in the 26th minute—was the decisive factor, securing the victory for the visitors.
The team exhibited discipline and defensive solidity for the majority of the match, limiting Al-Shabab’s opportunities from open play. While the result was disappointing, the performance showed the resilience and tactical approach that Paro FC is known for, providing a strong platform to build upon for the remaining fixtures.
Tomorrow's Challenge: Facing Altyn Asyr FC
There is no time to dwell on the result, as the focus now shifts entirely to Matchday 2.
Paro FC will face Altyn Asyr FC from Turkmenistan tomorrow, Tuesday, October 28th, in what promises to be another fierce contest. Altyn Asyr, a club with significant experience in AFC competitions, will test our team’s limits.
Match: Paro FC vs. Altyn Asyr FC (Turkmenistan)
Date: Tuesday, October 28th (Tomorrow)
Venue: Changlimithang Stadium, Thimphu
The Tigers are eager to bounce back, knowing that a positive result is crucial to keep our hopes of advancing to the quarter-finals alive. We call on all our fans to come out in full force to support the team as they seek their first points in the group.
Looking Ahead to Friday's Decider
The Group Stage culminates on Friday, October 31st, with our final fixture against Abdysh-Ata FC from Kyrgyzstan. This group is highly competitive, and every point gained is vital. The team is prepared for the demanding schedule and remains determined to make history by becoming the first Bhutanese club to advance beyond the AFC Challenge League Group Stage.
Let’s go, Paro! We believe!You can see highlights of the first match here: Al Shabab Club vs Paro FC | Full Match | AFC Challenge League™️ 2025/26. This video provides footage of Paro FC’s first match in the AFC Challenge League group stage.
