The first round of the group stage of the Asian Cup took place on January 6 in Jeddah, where the Kyrgyz team lost 1-0.
In this match, a red card was shown to Arsen Sharshenbekov in the 34th minute, and in the 77th minute, Nurlanbekov successfully saved a penalty kick.
After the game, Nurlanbekov answered questions from journalist Adilet Kerimbekov from "Kyrgyz Sport TV".
- What are your impressions of the match?
- The game was difficult. I can say that the referee somewhat spoiled the match. The red card was unexpected for us; before the ejection, everything was going well. I think that’s what ruined everything.
- What was your task before the game, and how did the plan change after the ejection?
- We approached the match with good preparation and a mindset for victory. After the ejection, we had to change our tactics and started playing defensively, relying on counterattacks.
- How will the preparation for the next games proceed?
- We will do everything possible to earn 6 points in the remaining matches.
