Kyrgyzstan wins kokpar world title after defeating Kazakhstan 7-2

Kyrgyzstan defeated Kazakhstan 7-2 in the zher uulak, or kokpar, final at the VI World Nomad Games, taking the title from the defending champions.

Kyrgyzstan led 3-2 at halftime. In the second half, the team widened its advantage and prevented Kazakhstan from scoring another salym. Dastan Ruslanov scored the fifth salym to make it 5-2, followed by Manas Niyazov’s goal for 6-2. Iskhak Bekbolot uulu scored the seventh and final salym.

The match drew enthusiastic support, while several rewards for the players were announced during the final. Kazakh kokpar veteran Abilkhan Daulbayev promised Kazakhstan’s players $1,000 for every salym they scored. Daniyar Koblandin, head of the World Kokpar Association, announced a reward of 1 million tenge for each player who scored a goal up to the fifth salym.

Kyrgyz officials also pledged rewards. Parliament Speaker Marlen Mamataliev promised the winners 1 million soms on behalf of himself and members of parliament. Kyrgyz Kok-Boru Federation President Aibek Shamshidin uulu and Vice President Zhoomart Abduzarib uulu said they would give the team another 1 million soms if it won. One spectator promised each Kyrgyz player a pilgrimage trip to Mecca.

Seven teams competed in the tournament in two groups. Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan finished top of their groups and reached the final. At the previous World Nomad Games in Astana, the same final ended with Kazakhstan beating Kyrgyzstan 5-4.