«These days, our hearts are full of pride in the country and gratitude for your game, patriotism, work,» the President of Kyrgyzstan Sooronbai Jeenbekov said at the ceremony of awarding players of the national football team. The Information Policy Department of the Presidential Administration reported.

«You with honor and dignity defended the pride of our republic. You gave us a great spiritual holiday and deserved the gratitude of all Kyrgyzstanis. On a par with well-known football teams, you showed a magnificent example of team spirit, true friendship, courage and bravery. We perceive your last game at the Asian Cup not as a defeat, but as a victory of dignity and honor,» the head of the Kyrgyz Republic stressed.

Sooronbai Jeenbekov stressed that the national team players became the idols of many children, young guys who are just starting their way to the big sport.

He also noted the contribution to the development of Kyrgyz football by the President of Dordoi sports club, Askar Salymbekov, and awarded him Manas Order of the 3^rd degree. According to Sooronbai Jeenbekov, 14 players of the Kyrgyz national team are trainees of Dordoi.

The head of state stressed the role of the President of the Football Federation of the country, Semetei Sultanov, who made a significant contribution to the formation and development of Kyrgyz football. He was awarded Dank medal.

«Sport strengthens friendship among the nations of the world. Our multinational team has convincingly proved the undeniable advantage of our society. The unity of the people, interethnic harmony are our strength and the guarantee of great victories,» said Sooronbai Jeenbekov.

«Vitaly Lux and Edgar Bernhardt were born and raised in our country, breathed mountainous healing air and drank our clear water. Now they defend the honor of our multinational republic, deserve the honor and respect of all Kyrgyz people,» he stressed.

Assistant coach Igor Kudrenko was awarded the honorary title «Honored Worker of Physical Culture and Sports of the Kyrgyz Republic,» and the national team doctor Nurbek Ismailov was awarded the honorary title «Honored Doctor of the Kyrgyz Republic.»

«You have everything ahead. We expect a lot of victories from you. And we believe that they will not make us wait long. We are sure that you will raise the flag of national football again and again,» the head of state said.