Central Asia - Japan U-16 Football Exchange Programme is kicking off in Tashkent, Uzbekistan from 29 February to 5 March. This is a part of the international contribution programmes called “SPORT FOR TOMORROW”, and the Japanese government is leading it. This programme is held for the second time following the first one in March last year in Osaka. 

This competition will start with the declaration of the opening made by Askar I. Talipd Janov, Vice President of Uzbekistan Football Federation, and international friendship will take place from 1 - 4 of March. 

3 of the 4 countries taking part in this competition, Japan, Uzbekistan, and Iran, have already qualified for the AFC U-16 Championship India 2016 in September. Each match is expected to be heated-up as a practice competition for this championship. 

Detailed match information of the U-16 Japan National Team are available on U-16 Japan National team page. Please check it out.
More information

Coach and Players' Comments

Muhadov Rovshen, Coach (U-16 Turkmenistan National Team)
We played against the Uzbekistan National Team today. They are in such a high level both in fitness and techniques, and it was a difficult match for us. In the first half, our players did their best but in the 2nd half, they conceded many goals due to tiredness from the journey.

However, this will be a precious experience for our players to play against strong teams from overseas during this competition. I think that continuous support from Japan will be necessary for us to level-up our national team. Thank you very much for inviting us in this opportunity. I would like to express my heartily appreciation. 

Tachnazarov Batyr, Vice-captain (U-16 Turkmenistan National Team)
We have done our best and enjoyed playing in this international match. We usually don’t have opportunities to improve ourselves outside of my country. This time, we were invited to have a chance to play against foreign teams and to improve ourselves. I appreciate this Central Asia - Japan U-16 Football Exchange Programme. I will do my best again tomorrow.