Higuita: “A new cycle lies ahead. I am ready for the next challenge”

“I think the Kazakhstan–Italy match was the central one among the playoffs. All of Europe was watching us. We narrowly lost away and narrowly won at home and managed to reach the penalty shootout. We played well, especially in the second half – there were many chances.

Today’s result is very painful. I really wanted to play at the European Championship. But what can we do? Defeats bring pain.

Still, I am proud of our guys. As I said in the dressing room: the whole football world is watching us, respects us, and sometimes even fears us. I believe our journey continues.

A new cycle lies ahead. I hope that Kaka will stay, because he has done a lot for our futsal. I am ready for the next challenge. It is always an honor to play for Kazakhstan. Right now it is a painful moment, but we must return to our clubs – the season has only just begun. Ahead are the Kazakhstan Cup, the Champions League, and the national championship.

The main thing is that everyone returns healthy to their clubs. And we will continue the season and try to play at the highest level.”