Talgat Baysufinov: “I’m grateful to the boys — they gave everything until the final whistle”

– This qualifying cycle is over. We got a draw, took a point, and we should be satisfied with that. You saw the game — Belgium needed the result to reach the World Cup, so they put a lot of pressure on us. I’m grateful to the boys — they gave everything until the final whistle.

– Your thoughts on Islam Chesnokov’s red card?

– We’ll take another look at that incident. Their player also committed a foul on ours, but the referee made his decision — that’s his job.

We were disappointed to drop two points against North Macedonia. I think today we earned this result. We considered who had already finished their league season and who was still match-sharp. Tapalov played as a holding midfielder today. When he shifted out wide, Ramazan Orazov covered his area. In attack we had three players operating high, so Maksim Samorodov dropped deeper and, when transitioning forward, effectively became a fourth striker. With players like that, we really need to focus more on our attacking play.

At half-time, Kenzhebek and Satpayev told us they were tired, so we made changes. Before the game Galymzhan came down with a virus (a cold), so he won’t be available against the Faroe Islands.

When we brought on Arsen Ashirbek, Nuraly Alip came up to me and asked: ''So how are we going to attack now?'' He had some grounds to say that (laughs).

– Congratulations on that performance. Is there a chance that Temirlan Anarbekov won’t play in the next game?

If that's what the opposing coach is saying, it's easier for him right now to single out our goalkeeper — but we don’t deny he did a great job.

Taking this opportunity, I want to thank the federation for their trust in me. We fully realized the responsibility. Ali Aliyev made a move to rejuvenate the squad. We had to support that. The fans are happy with our playing philosophy — that the guys fight. I believe we must continue this work.

Anarbekov gave everything today. All the Kairat players had an excellent match. Since the club is still competing in the European cups, we decided not to take them to the game against the Faroe Islands and instead give them time to recover. That decision was made in consultation with the management. So Temirlan, Dastan and the other guys are going home.

Throughout this cycle, everyone said we would only take points against Liechtenstein. But how many chances did we create in the home games against Wales and North Macedonia? On a scale of one to ten, I'd rate it an eight — not a perfect ten, but after all, we didn't qualify for the World Cup.

Our big problem is that we start things, but then lose focus. I believe the decision to rejuvenate the squad was the right one. It's a great example for the next generation and for young footballers.

– What does your heart say? Do you want to stay with the national team?

– Well, I am Kazakh. And the national team is the national team. I lean toward staying, but let’s play the Faroe Islands first, then make a decision together with the leadership. Always — if I’m needed, of course, I’ll be there to help.