Las Campeonas

On August 27th, 2025, two Kazakhstani women’s football clubs stepped onto one of the most prestigious stages in European football – the UEFA Women’s Champions League qualifying. FC Aktobe Women faced AS Roma Women, while BIIK Shymkent took on Poland’s Katowice.

These matches marked an important milestone for Kazakhstani football. Playing in the UEFA Women’s Champions League is proof that women’s teams from Kazakhstan are part of one of the world’s most prestigious tournaments. Yet, if you looked at the official social media pages of the Kazakhstan Football Federation, you might have missed it entirely. Apart from the federation’s dedicated women’s football account, @kff_women, there was no coverage on the main website or official social media platforms.

It sends a clear message about the priorities in Kazakhstan’s football culture. During the same week, all media attention was focused on FC Kairat’s historic qualification to the group stage of the UEFA Champions League – a massive and well-deserved achievement. But while the men’s game was celebrated nationwide, the women’s game was once again left in the shadows.

Media coverage shapes perception, and perception drives investment, support, and growth. When women’s teams are sidelined, it limits opportunities for young girls to see themselves represented on the biggest stages.

If Kazakhstan wants to truly develop its football ecosystem, recognition must be equal. The women representing our country in European competitions deserve the same pride, attention, and celebration as their male counterparts. Giving their achievements the visibility they deserve is a necessary step toward changing the perception of the women’s game and ensuring its long-term development.