Zhanyia Makhash: “I want to score even more goals than last season”

Freedom QJ League W champion and Kairat midfielder Zhanyia Makhash was called up to the younger of these teams.

She spoke about how she spent the off-season and shared her expectations ahead of the UEFA Women’s U-17 European Championship qualification matches scheduled for April.

— During the winter break I worked out in the gym. Preparation for the April matches is going well.

Playing for the national team is great. I represent my country and it is a huge honor for me. I am always motivated and never afraid.

Most of us in the team already know each other, but there are also some new girls. We all get along very well.

— You will soon travel to Montenegro. Have you been there before and what are your expectations from this trip?

— No, I haven’t been there yet. As for the matches, our goal is to qualify for League A.

— Tell us about your previous international trips and your impressions.

— We have been to Sweden, Northern Ireland and Belarus. The experience was great. Traveling is really exciting.

— What was the main highlight of last season for you?

— Our victory in the Freedom QJ League W.

— What are your main plans for 2026?

— To win another title, extend our unbeaten run and qualify for League A with the national team. Personally, I want to score more goals than last season and show strong results.

Last season Zhanyia scored 11 goals and provided 23 assists in 13 matches of the Freedom QJ League W, earning the award for Best Midfielder of the tournament.

Kazakhstan WU-17 will face Moldova and Montenegro. The matches will take place in Danilovgrad on April 4 and April 7 respectively.