AFC U17 Asian Cup
At first it shone a creamy orange before the match kicked off, but by the time Sayfiddin Sodikov tucked home the third goal in first-half added time, the moon had turned full white and made its way high up above the lights, shining down on the field.
#AFCU17 - Spotlight - Muhammadali Musakhanov (UZB)
The moon’s bright beam is reminiscent of the talent Uzbekistan possesses within its ranks, which has seen the young White Wolves reach the semi-finals with relative comfort to establish themselves as one of tournament’s title contenders.
A key player to their lofty ambitions is Muhammadali Musakhanov, Uzbekistan’s romping left-back who has featured in every match in Taif so far.
Reserved by nature, with all talking done through his feet, Musakhanov is a player every coach desires.
Musakhanov has enjoyed every minute of the 341 he’s played so far.
“I am grateful the coaching staff have put their trust in me. I feel the responsibility that comes with that, and I do my best to live up to their expectations every time I step on the pitch,” he starts out in a soft-spoken tone.
Musakhanov has also taken to the city of Taif, located in the slopes of the Hijaz Mountains which offers a nice cool breeze this time of the year.
“I’ve really enjoyed playing in Taif. The weather is nice, and the stadiums are modern just like in Europe. The people are incredibly hospitable too.
“We’re enjoying ourselves so far. We’ve given everything in every match and we can see our hard work paying off. But we know the most important games are still ahead, so we’re staying focused and preparing seriously,” he said.
On days where Uzbekistan are not dominating their opponents on the football pitch, the players do find time to relax.
“We usually play video games on PlayStation, watch movies, hang out and chat, go for walks, or just listen to music. It helps us to recharge and stay connected as a team.”
Like many teenagers, Musakhanov developed an inkling for the game through playing street football.
But after his parents enrolled him in a football academy is when the 17-year-old began to hone his skills.
At this stage of his fledgling career, the player who dons the No.15 jersey is grateful to have Islombek Ismoilov as his national team head coach.
“Our coach is demanding, but he is also close to us. He knows how to motivate us before a game, and his individual approach to each player makes a big difference. His pre-match talks really energises the team.
“I am also grateful to our fans who are here in Taif. They have given us a huge boost. Their noise in the stadium, the flags, the cheers, it gives us strength. Especially during difficult moments, their support is what keeps us going.”
“I absolutely believe in this team! We are confident of winning the title and bringing the trophy home.”
Uzbekistan beat UAE 3-1 in the quarter-finals, and will face DPR Korea in Thursday’s hugely anticipated semi-final showdown at the King Fahd Sports City Stadium.
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