Amateur League Winners Take Part in Kazakhstan Cup

Last year, the Kazakhstan Football Federation launched the ‘Amateur League’ project, with the top two teams — BKS and Zhelaev Nan — earning the opportunity to compete in the Kazakhstan Cup.

BKS from Almaty, one of the strongest amateur teams in the country and last season’s national amateur champions, made their debut in the Round of 32 and immediately made an impression by pushing seven-time champions FC Astana. BKS took the lead during the match but eventually suffered a narrow 2–1 defeat, conceding the decisive goal in stoppage time. The team will next compete in the UEFA Regions’ Cup, where they will represent Kazakhstan on the international stage.

Kazakhstan Cup, Round of 32
BKS 1–2 Astana (1–1)
Goals: Parkhatzhan 30 – Mustafin 34, Akhmetov 90+2
08.04.2026. Almaty, Khan Tengri Stadium

Another participant was Zhelaev Nan from Uralsk — a team that has consistently performed strongly in regional competitions over the years. In 2024, the club established itself among the country’s top amateur sides and this season competed in the Round of 32 against Premier League side Altai.

Kazakhstan Cup, Round of 32
Zhelaev Nan 0–2 Altai (0–1)
Goals: Micevic 15, Schmidt 54
09.04.2026. Uralsk, Petr Atoyan Stadium

The inclusion of amateur teams in the Kazakhstan Cup marks an important step in the development of domestic football. While the competition was previously seen as a tournament exclusively for professional clubs, it is now becoming more open and inclusive. This approach helps promote the game, increase competition and strengthen the overall football pyramid, particularly at grassroots level.

A new season of the Amateur League will kick off soon. The project brings together more than 260 teams and over 5,000 players across the country, continuing to play a key role in the development of grassroots and providing opportunities for amateur players nationwide.