What did Kyrgyzstan's head coach Maksim Lisitsin say at the press conference?

The head coach of the Kyrgyz Republic national team, Maksim Lisitsin, and team captain Valeriy Kichin participated in a press conference ahead of the match against Uzbekistan in the 3rd qualifying round of the World Cup 2026.

“We know that tomorrow will be a tough match. The qualifying stage is nearing its end. Every team has started playing for results. The result is very important for us as well. We will try to achieve the result we need tomorrow,” said Maksim Lisitsin before the match.

“A big excitement is expected tomorrow. I hope both teams will show an interesting game for the fans,” said team captain Valeriy Kichin.

- More than 1000 fans from Kyrgyzstan have come. What are your wishes for the fans who will support our national team tomorrow...

- Two rounds have been held in the championship. Can you talk about the physical condition and preparation of the players who are playing in the Premier League? Also, how is the situation with the legionnaires?

- The situation is not too bad; I can say it’s good. We have done some preparation. I can’t say that the first two matches of the championship helped us a lot. Because the players played on artificial turf. Now they are transitioning to natural grass. This situation may pose a problem for the players. I think we are ready for the game. We are making maximum efforts to make the most of every second and prepare better for the matches.

- Last September, before the match against Uzbekistan, the Kyrgyz national team faced problems arriving from Iran to Bishkek. You mentioned that these logistical issues made preparation a bit difficult. This time, did the Kyrgyz national team face such problems? Is your team fully prepared for tomorrow's game?

- This time there were no logistical issues. A few of our legionnaire players flew in from abroad, that’s all. Overall, the preparation went well. Comparing tomorrow's match with the game in Bishkek is a bit strange. A lot of time has passed since then. Many players have gone through the preparation process for the new season with their clubs. We will find out what we are capable of and how we can show our maximum level through our actions on the field tomorrow. I think the players are 100% ready for the match.

- How do you evaluate the current defensive line of the Uzbekistan national team?

- In modern football, it is incorrect to evaluate just one line or position. For example, it is possible to evaluate the overall defensive actions of the team. We know that there are very strong players in the Uzbekistan national team, and that is why your national team acts quite reliably in defense.

- There is an impression that the Kyrgyz national team plays better at home. For example, against Uzbekistan and Iran. Also, North Korea was defeated in Bishkek. The results in away games are not good. Is it really more difficult for the Kyrgyz national team to play away?

- I think we are lacking a bit of experience at this stage. That is why we are struggling in the matches we play as guests. At home, the fans support us wonderfully, and this gives us even more motivation. We are also trying to achieve better results in away matches. We are working on this issue.

Question to Valeriy Kichin

- Valeriy, you played in the Uzbekistan championship last season. Could this aspect help you before tomorrow's match?
- No. There is a big difference between club football and national team level. Also, the main players of the Uzbekistan national team are mostly legionnaires.

- The Kyrgyz national team has faced Uzbekistan nine times before and lost in all matches. Does this statistic put pressure on you?

- I think not. This fact probably affects the fans and the management more. The players do not pay attention to this. The players are only thinking about showing a better game in tomorrow's match.

- Before the match in Bishkek, there were rumors that the president of Kyrgyzstan promised to give a car as a gift if the national team wins. Were there similar promises made before tomorrow's match?

- Did the president of Uzbekistan promise? (laughs). No, I am not aware of that. The players have enough motivation. These words are more relevant to the fans and people around football. The Football Federation has been supporting us very well. I am not aware of the statements you mentioned.