Talgat Baisufinov: “Today’s Match Helped Us Identify Our Strengths and Weaknesses”
“I would like to congratulate everyone on today’s victory. In this match, we assessed the players and identified areas that still need improvement. We will carry out a detailed analysis. We set ourselves the task of winning – and we achieved it. The players have slightly lost touch with our playing style, and now we are reintroducing it.We have a short break ahead, after which we will have time to train until March 31.
Overall, the goals scored by defenders are the result of the work we managed to do during the training camp. However, we did not have enough time to fully work on set pieces.
We knew in advance that the opponent was very quick in transitions, used long balls effectively and was strong in one-on-one situations. We spoke about this before the match and at the press conference, and communicated it to the players. Today we saw both their team play and individual quality. We also knew they were dangerous from set pieces. However, after seeing their line-up before the match and noticing that many of their players were of average height, we relaxed slightly. Nevertheless, their set pieces were still dangerous.
In training, we focused on defending set pieces. As for attacking set pieces – corners and free-kicks – we worked on them to a limited extent due to time constraints. We always try to give players tasks they can execute effectively.
For example, Alibek Kasym’s goal came from a situation we took from a recent match between Astana and Tobol, where he scored from a corner. We asked the players to replicate a similar situation with a delivery to the far post, where Islam Chesnokov or Maxim Samorodov were expected to attack the ball. The issues you mentioned do exist – we do not deny that. That is why we have moved towards a more professional level of discipline. Players performing in foreign leagues must bring that level of professionalism and standards into the national team.
Today we saw that, despite his experience, Islam Chesnokov still needs time – he is not yet at the level he showed in the Kazakhstan Premier League. A similar situation applies to other players. Maxim Samorodov is in good rhythm, while Nuraly Alip lacks match practice at Zenit. Therefore, for players based abroad, the national team is an opportunity to prove themselves and gain playing time. Club coaches are also watching them and drawing conclusions – which is to be expected.
At the moment, we have a core squad and a defined playing system, but we lack depth – players who can come off the bench and strengthen the team. This has been an issue for many years. As long as I have been working with the national team, it has always existed. I believe it is partly related to mentality, and we have to accept it as a reality.
Today, several players made their debuts. Alexandr Mrynskiy has been in good match condition since last year, so it was easier for him. Others need time – we understand that. We give tactical instructions to players who show character and desire. We have time, and we believe in them.
In the FIFA Series matches, we will give playing time to all the players. Bekhan Shaizada will also feature soon. Our goalkeepers – Temirlan Anarbekov, Mukhammedzhan Seisen, Bekhan Shaizada and Alexandr Zarutskiy – are showing a good level. We discuss their condition daily with the goalkeeping coach, and there is healthy competition between them.
In the match against Comoros, there will be a difference between the starting line-up and those who come on in the second half. To maintain balance, experienced players must be on the pitch. In June, we will have friendly matches, which will give us a clearer picture. I always say: the opponent plays the way we allow them to. Today we told the players they need to be quicker in duels. If you give the opponent time, they will use it, but under active pressing it becomes difficult for them. Today Namibia played quickly, and we often lost possession. But this can be corrected. The most important thing is that we started the year with a victory,” said Talgat Baisufinov.
