“Football for me is life”
Image: Daniel Lipinski
“We are like a family.”
For young Kyrgyzstan player Kenge Rysbek Kyzy, the family atmosphere within her team is something that is very rewarding.
“I’m from the Naryn region of the country, and come from a big family of eight brothers and sisters. Being here in Oslo representing Kyrgyzstan is great. We are like a family.”
Lauded by her coaches for being strong and quick, Kyzy says Oslo isn’t the first place she has visited to play football, but she is enjoying her time in the Norwegian capital.
“I’ve been to a few different countries to play football, like Myanmar. I think Oslo is a very beautiful city and I am very proud to be able to participate in this competition.”
And for Kyzy, she hopes that she can remain involved within the Homeless World Cup set up even after her time in Oslo comes to an end.
“Football for me is life. I enjoy it when I play and give it my all. In the future, I’d love to come back to the Homeless World Cup as a coach to help others and make further trips like this one.”
In the interim, Kyzy is helping her team celebrate Kyrgystan’s Independence Day and raise awareness about the country and its culture. The team performed on the Homeless World Cup stage earlier today.
Words: Craig Williams
Photo: Daniel Lipinski