Raziya Nurkenova – A Pioneer of Women's Football in Kazakhstan

Raziya Nurkenova – A Pioneer of Women's Football in Kazakhstan

Raziya Nurkenova was a forward for Kazakhstan's first women's football team, a Master of Sports of Kazakhstan and Russia, a three-time Russian champion, a Russian Cup winner, a CIS Champions Cup winner, and later the head coach of Kazakhstan's women's national team.

Her football journey began in 1987 with Olimp Karaganda, the country's first women's football club. Known for her speed, vision, and leadership, she competed in major Soviet tournaments and took part in the inaugural FIFA Women's World Championship in China in 1991.

She later enjoyed a successful career with CSK VVS Samara, winning multiple national titles. After retiring as a player, she dedicated herself to coaching, helping develop women's football in both Russia and Kazakhstan. She also founded Samara's first private football club for girls before leading Kazakhstan's national women's team.

Raziya Nurkenova passed away in 2020, leaving a lasting legacy as an outstanding footballer, coach, and mentor. She remains one of the most influential figures in the history of women's football in Kazakhstan and Russia.

   

 

Raziya Nurkenova – A Pioneer of Women's Football in Kazakhstan