AFC Futsal Asian Cup - Bekmurodov credits heroics to Tajikistan defence

Jakarta: Tajikistan’s Firuz Bekmurodov’s exceptional display against Uzbekistan secured his side a point in their opening AFC Futsal Asian Cup Indonesia 2026™ tie but the keeper said all credit should go towards their defence.

The 28-year-old pulled off numerous saves in their Group C tie to keep the high-pressing four-time finalists at bay and sent their attacking lineup of Muzaffar Akhadjonov, Anakshon Rakhmatov and Elbek Tulkinov home empty handed.

“We started playing from the defence onwards and they did all the work,” said Bekmurodov. “I very much appreciate their dedication, effort and skills. It was a team achievement all the way.”

Bekmurodov, who plays for Sipar Khujand in the Tajikistan Futsal League, said his experience at the FIFA Futsal World Cup Uzbekistan 2024 had sharpened his overall game.

“The experience of playing at that level against the top teams in the world was so valuable,” he said. “And at Indonesia 2026, I will try to apply what I’ve learnt from watching the goalkeepers in action.”

He has also absorbed much from Japan, who Tajikistan play on Friday.

“They are a strong team with good discipline, and my teammates and I have tried to pick up some of their skills and emulate their style of play.

“I feel the same pressure and atmosphere at the World Cup, here, at the Futsal Asian Cup, because we have such high-quality teams like Japan contesting.”

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