Norchaev’s journey towards the award started on the first matchday of the group stage as he scored the third in Nasaf’s 4-0 thumping of FC Alay Osh of Kyrgyz Republic.

The Matchday Two encounter against Khujand FC was the only game the youngster could not find the back of the net in en route to the final, but he resumed regular service in the following match, helping his side book their place in the knockout stage with the second goal in a 2-0 win over Altyn Asyr FC.

As the going got tough, Norchaev proved to be tougher. His late goal from the spot settled the Central Zonal Final in Nasaf’s favour after FC Ahal had come from two goals down to equalise in the second half.

The wonderkid then cemented his status as Uzbekistan’s rising star striker, bagging an impressive 13-minute hat-trick as Nasaf brushed aside ATK Mohun Bagan 6-0 in the Inter-Zone Semi-Final.

Another big challenge awaited in the shape of Hong Kong side Lee Man FC and Norchaev was again up to the challenge, scoring the second goal as his side fought off another comeback to emerge 3-2 winners after extra time to set up a final date with Muharraq Club.

Although the campaign ended in heartbreak for the Uzbek side as they fell to Muharraq Club unanswered, Norchaev will surely remember the 2021 AFC Cup as the tournament which announced his arrival on the Asian football stage.