As part of the KRU’s recommendation, the Asylbek Momunov Football Academy’s one-star Academy status under the AFC Elite Youth Scheme was also renewed.

The Academy was recognised for its ability to consistently produce several players for the Kyrgyz Republic national team through its shadow programme whilst its commitment to developing well-rounded individuals and instilling lifelong values such as teamwork, discipline and leadership was also lauded.

At the same time, the commendable improvements in infrastructure were also singled out, further reiterating the KFU’s commitment towards creating a vibrant environment for the continued development of youth football as well as Futsal.

 

Additionally, the KFU’s desire to enhance its youth development capacities was also emphasised with the appointment of key technical staff members, including a comprehensive team of professional coaches and support staff across all age-groups as well as the hiring of a new Head of Youth and Technical Director.

Recognising the essential role of competitions in aiding player development, it was also noted that the KFU had hosted several youth competitions, including the Talents Cup U14 International tournament, which comprised teams from Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Bahrain.

 

The tournament provided an excellent opportunity for the KFU’s U14 players to gain invaluable international exposure – a crucial component in preparing its youth players for future success in Continental competitions.

Similar observations were made in the development of futsal, which continues to gain popularity in the Republic with the KFU organising competitive friendlies with the Russian U17 and U19 Futsal teams at the Member Association’s new indoor futsal facility in Bishkek.

 

KFU Technical Director Anarbek Ormombekov said: “First and foremost, I want to express my sincere delight in being part of the AFC Elite Youth Scheme. This programme opens up unique opportunities for us, and I would like to thank everyone involved in its implementation.

“Through this endorsement, we can create not only the conditions for the comprehensive development of our players but also raise the quality standards in the academies that are shaping the future stars of Kyrgyz Republic.  

“I am confident that the future of our football is directly tied to this endorsement scheme. We have a clear understanding of the next steps required to developing our elite youth football programme and our academies, and we are proud to have been recognised by the AFC.

 

“I also firmly believe that this is just the beginning. In the near future, we will not only strengthen our existing academies but also start working on creating new ones that will serve as the foundation for long-term success.”