Mass brawl erupts at youth football match in Kazakhstan Federation launches disciplinary review

A youth football match in Kazakhstan descended into chaos after players from two teams staged a mass brawl, prompting a strong response from the Kazakhstan Football Federation (KFF).

The violent incident occurred on August 15 during a match between Turan and Ekibastuz academies (players born in 2011) at a championship tournament held in Shymkent, Caliber.Az reports.

The altercation reportedly began in the 70th minute when a conflict between two players escalated dramatically. One player leapt into an opponent with a high, straight-legged kick before launching a flurry of punches. The attack triggered a wider melee involving numerous players from both sides.

Footage and eyewitness reports confirm that several young players were knocked to the ground and kicked during the brawl. The referee, struggling to restore order, issued four straight red cards and was forced to abandon the match before its official conclusion.

In an official statement, the KFF strongly condemned the behaviour, stating that it “contradicts the values of sport and the principles of fair play.” The Federation underscored that football must be rooted in respect, competition, and sportsmanship, stressing the gravity of such violent conduct, especially involving minors.

The KFF has forwarded all refereeing materials, including match reports and video evidence, to its Control, Disciplinary and Ethics Committee. A disciplinary hearing has been scheduled for next week, and those found responsible could face significant sanctions, including lifetime bans from participating in football-related activities.

“The Federation views this incident with utmost seriousness,” the statement read. “Displays of aggression on the field are unacceptable and will be dealt with severely. All players, regardless of age, are expected to uphold the highest standards of conduct and ethics both on and off the pitch.”

By Vafa Guliyeva