AFC U23 Asian Cup
After six unsuccessful attempts, the Central Asian side finally broke through by topping their qualifying group to book a historic place at the continental tournament.
Factfile
Previous appearances: Nil
Best finish: NA
2024 record: Did not qualify
How they qualified: Group E winners
Group A fixtures: v Saudi Arabia (Jan 6), v Vietnam (Jan 9), v Jordan (Jan 12)
Fun fact: Kyrgyz Republic finished ahead of 2018 champions Uzbekistan in qualifying for the Finals.
Kyrgyz Republic snatched a late 2-1 victory against Palestine in their opening Qualifiers' tie before going toe-to-toe with Uzbekistan to force a 2-2 stalemate. They then flexed their muscles in a 6-0 win against Sri Lanka to top the group on goal difference. .
Placed in Group A alongside hosts Saudi Arabia and two experienced Finals’ regulars in Vietnam and Jordan, Kyrgyz Republic face a challenging introduction to the competition.
Dordoi Bishkek’s Kimi Merk will be tasked to provide the creative spark for the Central Asian side, having found the net twice alongside Marlen Murzakhmatov during the Qualifiers.
With history already made by qualifying, the Central Asian side will aim to rise to the occasion and lay the foundations for a brighter future.
