{"caption_all":"Less than one year after taking the helm, Lithuanian coach Kotryna Kulbyte made a significant impact by leading the Uzbekistan women's national team to qualify for the Asian Cup 2026. This achievement ended the team's 23-year absence from the continental stage.","caption_items":"["","",""]"}

{"caption_all":"The qualification was decided in a thrilling scenario on 5/7/2025 at Milly stadium in Tashkent. Uzbekistan drew with Nepal, as both teams were equal on points, goal difference, and goals scored, before Uzbekistan won in a penalty shootout to secure their Asian Cup 2026 spot. This was not only a memorable milestone but also an affirmation of Kulbyte's decision to leave Lithuania for Asia, following about half a year of negotiations with the Uzbekistan Football Federation.","caption_items":"["","","",""]"}

{"caption_all":"At the Asian Cup 2026 finals, Uzbekistan continued to surprise, finishing third in their group, earning a wildcard spot in the quarterfinals. Despite their journey ending after a 0-6 defeat to South Korea, this run was still considered a success beyond expectations, marking clear progress for the team under Kulbyte and reinforcing belief in the future of Uzbekistan women's football.","caption_items":"["","","",""]"}

{"caption_all":"Starting from football academies, Kulbyte gradually rose to assistant positions with the Lithuania U15 and U17 women's national teams. She then managed the FK Vilnius women's club for nearly three years before returning to the national team system in 2021 as the U15 head coach. One year later, she simultaneously served as an assistant for the senior national team and coached the U17 squad, before moving to Asia. Fluent in English and Russian, Kulbyte became the first Lithuanian woman to hold a UEFA Pro license in 2023. She expressed that she is enjoying life in Uzbekistan: "This is a wonderful experience. The people here are very friendly and open; I integrated quickly and feel like a part of this country. That helps make the work on the field smoother."","caption_items":"["","",""]"}

{"caption_all":"Although she does not aim to be a role model, Kulbyte hopes her journey can inspire others. "If I do my job well, I hope I can encourage others to pursue a path in football, whether playing or coaching. It is important that female coaches contribute to elevating the status of women's football and open opportunities for the next generation," the 33-year-old coach expressed.","caption_items":"["","","",""]"}Compiled by Hong Duy