Kairat players compete for the ball during their 0-0 draw at Celtic Park, Scotland on 21/8/2025. *Photo by AS*

Kairat players compete for the ball during their 0-0 draw at Celtic Park, Scotland on 21/8/2025. *Photo by AS*

Kairat vs. Celtic: 11:45 PM Tuesday, Hanoi time.

Founded in 1954, Kairat is one of Kazakhstan's most iconic clubs. It was Central Asia's sole representative in the former Soviet Top League, achieving notable promotions in 1976 and 1983. After Kazakhstan declared independence in 12/1991, Kairat won the inaugural national championship in 1992 and now boasts four more league titles and 10 national cups.

Although 85% of Kazakhstan lies in Asia and joined the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) in 1994, the nation switched to European competitions in 2002 after being accepted by UEFA. This opened the door for Kazakh clubs to compete in the Champions League, Europa League, and Conference League. In the 2021-2022 season, Kairat made their first Conference League group stage appearance, finishing last with two points.

FC Astana became the first Kazakh team to reach the Champions League group stage in 2015 after defeating APOEL. Now, Kairat aims to replicate that feat. After progressing through qualifying rounds, they secured a goalless draw against Celtic at Celtic Park. Their next challenge is securing a historic berth at their home ground, the 23,000-capacity Central Stadium in Almaty, which the club has owned since 2015.

Central Stadium in Almaty, part of Kazakhstan's largest sports complex. *Photo by AS*

Central Stadium in Almaty, part of Kazakhstan's largest sports complex. *Photo by AS*

Jorginho, Kairat's number 7 and a key player under manager Rafael Urazbakhtin, spoke to Spanish newspaper AS about the second leg against Celtic: "We know how difficult it is to face Celtic, so the whole team must be fully focused, work hard, and make sacrifices for each other. Maybe we didn't control the ball well, but we're proud of ourselves, and now it's time to decide [the tie] at home".

His teammate, Luis Mata, who watched the match from home, added: "The draw at Celtic Park shows the strength of this team. Now, we're all focused on the final step to make history together".

Jorginho and his fellow Portuguese teammate Mata are among Kairat's foreign players, acknowledging the challenges of adapting to life and football in Kazakhstan. "The hardest part is being away from Portugal and my family," Mata said. "But from day one, the club has shown faith in me, making everything easier. Almaty is a great city, and Kairat has excellent facilities, helping me integrate quickly." Jorginho mentioned the cultural barriers: "The climate and language are big challenges, as almost no one here speaks English. But once the season starts, all difficulties are put aside, and we focus solely on our goals."

Both highlighted the differences in football styles. Mata explained: "In Spain or Portugal, the game's tempo is very high, focusing on detailed tactics. In Kazakhstan, football is more physical and direct, although the league is improving every year."

Jorginho agreed: "Here, physicality and individual battles are emphasized, sometimes disrupting the opponent's play. While in Europe, the focus is on team organization and maintaining structure."

Both Portuguese players see Kairat's project, nicknamed "The People's Team," as a blend of present and future. Jorginho emphasized: "This is a project that helps me grow and opens up many opportunities." He has two goals and two assists in the Champions League qualifying rounds for Kairat.

Ahead of Kairat's most important match, Mata stated: "Reaching the Champions League group stage would be a dream come true, a moment that transcends all limits. I'll be able to tell my children about this achievement someday."

Kairat is on the verge of becoming the second Kazakh team to participate in the Champions League group stage. *Photo by AS*

Kairat is on the verge of becoming the second Kazakh team to participate in the Champions League group stage. *Photo by AS*

Kairat also boasts rising Kazakh star, Dastan Satpaev, who has been compared to Kylian Mbappe by local media. Dastan will join Chelsea in 8/2026 after turning 18, following a $4.6 million deal signed in 2/2025.

With three goals in Champions League qualifying, he is Kairat's top scorer. Kazakh fans hope he will lead the national team to international success. Jorginho, close to Dastan within the team, praised the 17-year-old's potential: "He has great qualities and potential. I'm sure he'll have a bright future."

Kairat will be without Dastan in the second leg due to accumulated yellow cards after a late booking in the first leg. However, Kairat's spirit and desire remain unshaken. They have a historic opportunity to reach the Champions League group stage for the first time.

More than just a match, this is a date with history for the Kazakh team.

Hoang Thong (according to AS)