In the opening stage of the Uzbekistan Cup, Nasaf finally returned home. In the match held at the Markaziy Stadium in Karshi, Ruziqul Berdiyev's side faced first-league representative Xavokand and secured a big win.
The match was completely dominated by Nasaf. The Karshi side created consecutive dangerous chances in front of the opponent's goal, eventually clinching a convincing 6-1 victory. Despite the lopsided score, head coach Ruziqul Berdiyev did not hide the fact that there are still many issues to be resolved within the team.
The coach first emphasized his satisfaction with returning to the team's home ground. According to him, the condition of the Markaziy Stadium pitch was quite good, and fans turned out in active numbers to support the team. This provided extra mental strength for the Nasaf players.
Berdiyev also showed special respect to the opponent. He noted that despite being a first-league team, Xavokand is a mobile and decent side supported in their region. He stated that due to limited information about the opponent, Nasaf approached the game seriously in the first half.
However, the situation changed slightly in the second half. In the coach's opinion, some players, especially the youngsters who came off the bench, did not utilize the given opportunity as expected. Berdiyev said he expected them to prove themselves, contribute to the team, and show they are ready for competition. But this plan did not fully materialize.
The Nasaf manager also addressed the squad issue openly. He emphasized that there is still a lot of work to be done in the team. It is important to make the squad more balanced and stable. Berdiyev stated that if possible, it is necessary to sign at least 3-4 quality players.
This opinion was not expressed in vain, as Nasaf is currently in a difficult situation in some aspects. The team is trying to continue the season relying on current players and youth. But it is clear from the head coach's words that if the squad is not strengthened, the second half of the season could be even more complex for Nasaf.
In particular, injuries and national team call-ups are significantly thinning the team's depth. According to Berdiyev, if two players get injured or several players leave for the national team, the team's options become sharply limited. This is a serious problem in a season with strong competition.
For this reason, the coach emphasized that he would convey this issue to the management and that practical steps must be taken to strengthen the squad. He expressed hope that all officials around the club would understand the situation correctly and provide comprehensive support to the team.
Berdiyev also commented on the situation regarding the foreign player Shala. He said the player left for home due to family problems. In addition, since he also had an injury, he did not play in recent matches and was not involved in the Cup fixtures.
The coach did not say exactly how this issue will end. If Shala's family problems continue, the possibility of terminating the contract between the club and the player may be considered. But for now, no final decision has been made.
It was also noted that there are players from the Nasaf squad who have left for the national team. Golib Gaybullayev is in the process of recovering from an injury and is expected to join the main group training soon. Murod did not play much in this match due to a minor injury. The coach stated that he fielded him cautiously.
Overall, Nasaf delighted their fans with a 6-1 big win. But Ruziqul Berdiyev's post-match comments showed that not everything is ideal in the team. The Karshi side looks strong in terms of results, but squad depth is crucial to maintain consistency throughout a long season.
Now the main question is: will the Nasaf management take the coach's request into account during the summer transfer window, or will the team start the second half with existing resources? One thing is clear: Berdiyev has sent a clear signal. Now it is up to the decision-makers.
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