Oksana Kokhannaya: “Competitions at this level will give a strong boost to the development of women’s football”

– Overall, the season went very well for us. We had a few tough matches in the second round – against Irtysh, Ordabasy and Astana – but we handled the pressure and managed to win.

This was our first time working in weekly microcycle format. I can say the players adapted quickly and comfortably, so we didn’t face any issues with preparation or switching to the new system.

It’s hard to highlight one specific quality that sets our team apart. I think the main thing is that no matter what happens on the pitch, the girls keep fighting until the very end. They never give up and will battle until the final whistle.

In my view, everyone on the team made significant progress this season, and it’s difficult to single someone out. The fact that nine Kairat players were called up for the U17 national team qualifiers speaks for itself. It shows that the girls are improving every year.

Undoubtedly, competitions held at such a high level as Freedom QJ League will give a powerful impulse to the development of women’s football in Kazakhstan. I would love to see more teams join next season – it would increase the number of matches and make the league even more competitive.

I wish everyone good luck and a productive preparation period for the upcoming season. See you on the football pitch!