2022 Premjer Ligasy Football
Preview
TOPBATI KARTASHViolet and white. The Sun Kings. Topbati Arena (21K)StartersHalikov *** Rusaev, Nurimbetov, Moser (NPH), Mambetaliev *** Atabaev, Murataliev, Zhuraev *** Umarov, Biktorika (ASG), Osmanov
StoryDestined for the title, Topbati Kartash aims to bounce back from an abysmal third place which bookended a period with seven titles in nine seasons. Owner Ruslan Alayev does not accept this, so a fresh manager is placed in the dugout with a set of new starters. The richest club from Kartash never sells out the majestic Topbati Arena much to the despair of Aleyev. A few seasons ago, the club cannibalized the popular but bankrupt Start, but rather than growing their fanbase, it made them more hated.
For some reason Alayev, head of the Topbati consortium, believes that another trophy will make them beloved but also aspires to reach it with more spectacular football: three strikers supported by Murataliev and Zhuraev, high wing-backs and a lot of movement around the box. It should regain Topbati dominance in the easier confrontations but whether it will see them through in the harder duels is an open question: the defensive axis has a certain age.
StarsZoltan Moser (CD; 33; NPH). A diligent leader which this formation missed dearly last year after the retirement of Yulun Dormatov. Experienced and commanding, the former Bishop and Goodfeather defender must give Topbati composure in the back of a fairly attacking line-up.
Mirbek Zhuraev (AM; 24; KYZ). The mastermind, the fan favourite, the slightly obnoxious but vastly talented man with the golden feet. Difficult to stop as he lurks around the sixteen, delivering decisive passes and scoring goals alike. Zhuraev is not really interested in team tactics and plays to shine.
Zarles Biktorika (CF; 26; ASG). The Astograthian could not make his mark for Ysgran Bay Eagles but he should find double figures for the purple-clad record champions. In a league with a lot of immobile defenders, he could find the space to shine and already pushed that other transfer Umarov to the wing.
Chyngyz Halikov (GK; 37; KYZ). The veteran of many wars who has been worshipped by Topbati fans and despised by approximately everyone else. Will waste time, simulate, discuss with referees and somehow escape cards. But he will also grab points for the squad and that matters most.
AKADEMIJA KARTASHScarlet and navy. The Meteors. Koomduk Stadium (8K)StartersBakirov *** Satybaldiev, Sadykov, Isakov *** Kubanychbek, Sharipov, Havista (TFS), Yunusov, Dyashev *** Atsushi (HIN), Nurdibek
StoryA new manager, a new line-up, new club colours and even a new name - no effort was spared by Tenguz Karamov to give the side which ended dead last a refreshing vibe. No one officially knows what business or contacts made Karamov wealthy enough to own a professional sports club but his rather one-sided feud with Alayev fuels his ambitions. In an, not even that delusional, bid to oust Topbati from the throne in the capital, the club took over the colours of the foregone Start Kartash, aiming to become the ‘people’s club’.
This gets combined with a very hasty infusion of young players into the line-up, as reflected in the new name. This season could very well be a wild goose chase trying to find new structures, especially as only four men in the line-up played at the domestic top level before. Nonetheless, they did improve in terms of talent available and in a competition without relegation, this long-term strategy could pay off. If one of the midfielders stands up and guides this eleven to a coherent tactic, they could even be decent now already.
StarsErlan Satybaldiev (CD; 31; KYZ). In the complete overhaul of the selection, the grizzled Satybaldiev remained one of the rare stable elements. A powerful header and a sharp tackler, he manages to pick apart the opposing attack before it properly materialises. Wears the captain's ribbon with pride.
Yoshifumi Atsushi (CF; 27; HIN). This fast striker left the Tikariotian competition with a chip on his shoulder and aims to relounge his career. If he can click with Nurdibek, he could become the sensation of the league with his piercing shot and win himself a ticket to a bigger league.
Asan Dyashev (RM; 21; KYZ). One of the brightest gems in the selection, the agile Dyashev has the wealth to choose between a well-placed cross or a quicksilver dribble. Still, whilst he awes the crowd, he failed to translate that in any stats so far so his status as top talent is quickly waning. Can he change that?
Boran Havista (CM; 20; TFS). Despite a tough career start, Havista leaves Mirage with positive reviews on his offensive capacities. A good connector in the heart of midfield who aims to move the play forward, he should fit in the technical, attacking philosophy aimed for by Karamov.
NAFTCHI DZHYLTORBlue and gold. The Greasy Bunch. Darak Tilkesi (9K)StartersMamazhanov *** Isaev, Toktosunov, A. Nurmatov, Zhumbaev *** Davis (BRE), K. Nurmatov, Huergas (FFD), Musaev, Radzhabov *** Karimov
StoryFew clubs take such pride in being a midtable filler as the Greasy Bunch, named after the petroleum field workers from the plains around Dzhyltor which support the club en masse. Naftchi is a club that made a business model out of being acceptable, but not great, in every domain. From a neat, cosy stadium all the way up to a sane boardroom it looks ok but they never seem capable of translating that into something which consistently exceeds mediocrity. The big emphasis on prudency has come back to bite them earlier, leading to ambitious managers and players parting ways.
Still, this is as good as a traditional club one will find in this league and if you’re not hungry for silverware, they could be an interesting side to follow. Hard-nosed manager Azayev sticks to a 4-2-3-1 system which puts a lot of emphasis on efficient counterattacking, aided by owning one of the bulkiest strikers in the league. Dilmurod Karimov can’t run three miles without dropping dead, but he’s an excellent targetman for this formation. What helps them to avoid the bottom spots is a close-knit dressing room, with numerous players who will play in blue and gold for their whole career.
StarsDilmurod Karimov (CF; 30; KYZ). Some players are only useful under the right guidance and this bulky striker and his aging coach form such a successful pairing. Karimov isn’t one to score a cartload of goals but he makes the team better and weighs on opposition, with his cannonshot always a danger.
Harlan Davis (DM; 26; BRE). From the IFCF pitches to the oil fields, it is a big step back for Rozelle’s resident brawler. In his chase for on-pitch minutes, Davis could elevate this side to a new level: the preseason games showed that he adds teeth and edge to a side that’s maybe a bit too nice by design. Well, except…
Nurali Isaev (RD; 24; KYZ). If you get nicknamed “quick’n’dirty” by the press, you know you’ve got the works on your hands. Isaev looks like a highstreet hobo, gets his kicks from reaching the backline and knocking out the opposition's teeth in the process. He’s a magnificent weapon, but an unguided one.
Pedro Huergas (CM; 20; FFD). Analysts are still trying to figure out the details on Huergas’ track record but the midfielder could prove to be an important Swiss army knife for the line-up: a decent positioning, two decent feet, decent stamina and a decent bloke. One wonders how on earth he ended up here.
TEFOIL CHEVIAKHAMBlack and mustard. The Gloves. Kapella Artinda (6K)StartersKamalov *** Abduvaliev, Mamirov, Popov, Begmatov *** Tagaev, Yuldashev *** Julian (TKT), Tynaliev, Sarybaev, Stawski (PFA)
StoryKapella Artinda usually sells out, but that is mainly because every Tefoil employee gets a free season pass as part of his or her wage. The fairly modern stadium is a bit of eyesore in the outskirts of the tiny hamlet of Cheviakham which has fewer souls than the stadium has seats. But it is the birthplace of the wealthy Tefirbek family and family father Emil preferred going to the pitch by foot. Whilst there is a philosophy on the ‘corporate family’ behind it all, it feels at times like a pet project and one that is not always taken care of properly.
Currently, management is in the hands of third son Ilkhom who promptly appointed himself as the new manager. According to insiders, his training mainly consists of long runs through the woods whilst his new 4-2-4 tactical ploy is adventurous to say the least. Then again, they came off the back of a drab sixth spot last year, so anything could be room for improvement. Their limited financial means guide them to poaching older players but it will not stop Cheviakham from challenging Naftchi in the so-called ‘Oil Derby’. Only called like that by people from Cheviakham, that is.
StarsBelek Sarybaev (CF; 23; KYZ). In a line-up which lacks interesting figures, the mobile and decisive Sarybaev is at least something for the fans to look out for. Tends to miss a buttload of chances but mainly because he goes for goal from any corner, bringing fear into the hearts of opposite defenders.
Uiara Stawski (LAM; 35; PFA). Some saw the Poafmersian ready for retirement but the incoming Conchin striker is determined to add a high-quality epilogue to his story. Stawski is not selfish, which could link up nicely with Sarybaev, and his journeyman past should make him fit in quickly.
Scott Julian (RAM; 31; TKT). Wrapping up a stay in Sylestone, the Tikariotian wouldn’t be marked as a professional footballer when walking on the street but makes up for that in footballing intellect. Wants to fight back after a deflating season with Halpenley City and find back joy in his odyssey.
Akmal Yuldashev (CM; 28; KYZ). Hardly makes the bar to be a star but this hardy clubman forms the perfect example of the kind of players that gravitate towards Tefoil. Physical players who lack the technical skills to live up to the name of ‘the beautiful game’ but at least Yuldashev has the heart in the right place.
ROTOR BASHKETYSHForest green and white. The Farmers. Jani Traktor Stadium (11K)StartersEshmatov *** Lazic (FFD), Saitov, Nasirdinov, Zhalalov, Kubatbekov *** Sarymsakov, Toroev, Makhmudov, Omorov *** Rose (SNL)
StoryThe Farmers ended up in second and, as that goes for a club like them, it cost them their defender Maksutov and forward Umarov who left for the more exciting possibilities with Dinamo and Topbati. It’s a shame for a club that holds a pretty good hand when it comes to improving to a higher level: a strong sponsorship in the Jani Traktor company, a vast (but sparsely populated) area to draw supporters from, a large albeit slightly outdated stadium and one of the best youth academies in the nation. And still, that illustrious first title is still out of their reach.
The lack of a strong leading figure in management or a clear direction where they are going, makes Bashketysh a sleeping giant which should slumber back to their mid table existence. Nonetheless, they're worth a watch if only for their fanbase, known for their ironic chants. They're heartbreak kids who manage to give hope before finding a new way to collapse. From a tactical viewpoint, they seem fairly defensive but their quick crosses and transitions often end up with numbers in the opposing box.
StarsJoshua Rose (CF; 33; SNL). The South Newlandian could not keep Meriador in the Tikariotian Premier League and got the tough task to replace Umarov up front. According to the scouts, his qualities in the box should fit in well with Rotor's style and a preseason hattrick somersaulted him into the hearts of the Farmers' fanbase.
Rustam Makhmudov (AM; 28; KYZ). Once a spanking hot striking talent but a devastating spell at Topbati saw him return to the club of his youth. Here he found a new stride as a wandering midfielder with a nose for fast passing and surprising appearances in the box. Known for his successful penalty streak.
Maksat Omorov (LM; 22; KYZ). A notably modern midfielder who covers a lot of ground whilst relying on an impeccable speed of execution. Always opts for the simple solution but as is said, nothing is harder than making football looks simple. Needs to score more goals to really excel.
Trifun Lazic (RD; 19; FFD). Based upon the reports from those who saw him at work, the young defender is some sort of three-lunged miracle who keeps on sprinting up and down the line. It remains unclear if he can actually do anything with a ball, but Rotor could use that injection of energy.
KARAYILDIZ OSHATBlack and white. The Foals. Black Star Arena (12K)StartersTemerov *** Alimov, A. Ibraev, Mamataliev, N. Ibraev *** Satirov, Abdramiev, Strelyi (SRS), Orunbaev *** Suleymanov, Garnett (BOL)
StoryKarayildiz ended in fifth last season and that is under the bar they have set for themselves across the last few seasons. The brewery-sponsored formation is the sole source of pride in the highly polluted factory city of Oshat and can rely on a fanatic, but borderline insane, crowd. We will get around the story when they threw a few dozen live chickens on the pitch on another day. Next to being known as a health hazard, Oshat also built up a reputation as a managers’ graveyard and the off-season was no stranger to that.
Newcomer Kurbanov gets a dressing room in front of him which struggles with aging and has been downright toxic at times last year. On top of that, he is stuck with a heritage of technical players, the result of a failed result to switch to an artificial turf. Karayildiz is back on grass again, but the selection still misses power and physique, despite having a few crafty members in the line-up. He will need to slot in his newcomers fast or you can expect someone else at the helm within weeks.
StarsVladimir Strelyi (CM; 24; SRS). Left Lublova through the side door but hopes to return to the Remnant States basking in glory one day. Becoming the key player for Karayildiz would be one big step of the way and it seems as if Kurbanov is willing to give the keys of the car to his new playmaker.
Adilet Mamataliev (CD; 28; KYZ). In a physical sense, Mamataliev is not really an exceptional player but he's a loyal fellow which turned him into captain at the age of 24. Vocal and a leader, but card-prone, he will play a crucial role in the direction for this squad as many players and fans look up to him.
Leonard Garnett (CF; 36; BOL). A veteran of quite a good number of wars, Garnett is the slowest player of the XI but he adds ingenuity and a good shot up front - last season Oshat scored way too few goals. In a dream scenario, the Bollonischian from SC Lagos finds a strong partnership with his junior colleague...
Yusup Suleymanov (CF; 21; KYZ). It is just his second season on the line-up but the talent on Suleymanov is unmistakable. He's powerful and fast and can be sent into space whilst shaking off a pair of direct opponents. If he can put his athletic capacities to better use with a bit more overview and cool, he's a Next Big Thing.
BIRIKKEN ALA-TURGANGrey and burgundy. The Miners. Borborduk Meniki (4K)StartersKozovikov (TJU) *** Roberson (CDG), Ergeshov, Kadirov *** Temirov, Kudayberdiev, Zholdoshev, Shamshiev, Bhegaliev, Khakimov *** Moldobaev
StoryEvery league needs its punching bag and Birikken plays that role with, well… we wouldn't call it exactly grace. The side from the copper mining hub of Ala-Turgan lacks the funds to hope for much more than avoiding the wooden spoon but utterly refuses to go down without a fight. The club, backed by a small but dedicated and hardened fanbase, has a long and peculiar history of shooting itself in the foot, from bizarre red card incidents over selling their biggest talent Chyngyz Halikov over a squabble for a few hundred quid.
Their position in the ranks does give them a hall pass to play cynical football, with an infinite number of defensively oriented midfielders and a fair share of hard tackles. After all, it's what the Pickaxes, as their ultras are called, come to see. Birikken is notably shabby on the road but can form a bit of a trap at home where they stick to the same tactical ploy. It got them up to seventh last season and if someone isn't paying attention this year, this poor, meagrely talented but well-spirited bunch will get past them.
StarsTair Shamshiev (CM; 26; KYZ). In a line-up where the faintest glimmer of talent makes you a rarity, Shamshiev stands out with his passing technique. The short midfielder turned down many fine offers as a true local of the town, born and cradled into a mining family. More than decent free kicks.
Nick Roberson (RCD; 29; CDG). Roberson did not meet the Premier Division standards back home but in this ultimate bottom of the barrel of professional football, he might be pretty useful to add some composure to the defensive trio. Considering the requirements, they're happy with someone who can turn around in less than five seconds.
Nuraly Moldobaev (CF; 31; KYZ). With his arrival at Birikken, Moldobaev is just one stop short of completing all eight top tier clubs. The tattoo aficionado knows how to score and is a key in the toolbox. Unfortunately, he's also a tool off-pitch and his big mouth always gets him in trouble.
Ivan Kozovikov (GK; 17; TJU). The Tjun-ian was shipped in for the role of reserve goalie but the CSTO Academy graduate is thrown for the lions after a brutal knee injury for starting goalie Beratiev. A chance to learn fast and honestly, this kid will have to. His reflexes seem to be more than alright.
DINAMO ZHACHEKMaroon and yellow. The Vengeance. I Sepil (8K)StartersRichardson (EUR) *** Maksutov, Toychiev, Kalbaev, Kazakov *** Ayetbaev, Sagynbaev, Svoboda (TKT) *** Dzhuraev, Sattarov, Rakhimov
StoryJubilations in I Sepil last year when Dinamo triumphed in the title game over Rotor. It was the second time that the Vengeance was crowned national champion and the first time in ages. Zhackek and its charismatic manager Nurbek Nurbekov won the highest honor staying true to some of the key principles of the club: a lot of local youth, a tactically apt execution of the 4-3-3 and a decent scouting system so you don't need to buy in bulk. You would almost think that with this being the alternative to corporate behemoth Topbati, they have the whole nation behind them.
You could not be more wrong. Dinamo is a remnant of the encompassing old leftist regime in the days before the independence and whilst they slowly try to shy away from that image, that is still what they are seen as by all non-locals. Within Zhachek, their following is large: the city was after all a prestige project of the regime, built in the middle of nowhere and intended to dominate the region. Nowadays the cracks in that fata morgana start to show and this club is one of the few things that keeps this city with exceptionally high unemployment rates afloat.
StarsAttokur Rakhimov (LF; 25; KYZ). Last season's top scorer, Rakhimov is a tall, eloquent and powerful striker in his prime. The only thing that seems to stand between him and turning this Dinamo title into a dynasty is a poor set of hamstrings who suffer each time he brings out his thundering shot.
Garrett Richardson (GK; 31; EUR). This lanky Euran goalkeeper could choose between a demotion to the Silver League or an international adventure and tried his luck on the latter. Should have the experience to last, but will need to use his feet to make it in Nurbekov's modern football style.
Peter Svoboda (LM; 28; TKT). Might have slowly fallen off the starting line-up over at Ancarea, but might land on his feet over here. The first click with midfield talent Sagynbaev looked promising and with his passing and pressure, he neatly complements the other midfield assets.
Medet Kazakov (LD; 24; KYZ). Despite being right-footed by nature, Kazakov took to this position like a fish to water. Quite often, he turns inside to make an appearance near the box. Has excellent timing in his rushes, assuring it doesn't harm his defensive duties which he executes cleanly.