At a press conference for the media forum “FC ‘Arkadag’ – The Pride and Future of Turkmen Football”, the Chairman of the State Committee of Turkmenistan for Physical Culture and Sport, Allaberdi Saparov, spoke. He emphasised that the club's entry into the AFC Champions League Round of 16 match is not just a sporting achievement, but a vivid testimony to Turkmen football's entry into a new international level. Founded in 2023 on the initiative of the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Hero Arkadag, the club has quickly become a powerful sporting force, according to IIC.

Saparov noted that the team's successes in the national championship and victory in the AFC Challenge League were made possible thanks to comprehensive state support.

In his speech, the Head of the State Committee drew attention to Turkmenistan's active cooperation with FIFA and the Asian Football Confederation. He stressed that the country has become a reliable venue for major international tournaments, and the upcoming match with ‘Al-Nassr’ on 11 February will be a clear confirmation of this. The game promises to be a real treat for fans and demonstrate the modern level of Turkmen stadiums and the organisation of sporting events.

In conclusion, Saparov expressed his confidence that the players and coaching staff of FC ‘Arkadag’ will make every effort to justify the trust placed in them and put on a good show against the world's football stars.