Football is not only a sport but also a powerful instrument of social change.
Who is Siyasat Asgarov?
Siyasat Asgarov is a football professional dedicated to the development of women’s football, having contributed to various projects in both Türkiye and Azerbaijan. He has been actively involved in areas such as the structural development of women’s football, player development, coach education, and international integration. Throughout his career, he has prioritized building sustainable systems rather than focusing solely on short-term success. The championships he has achieved and the international experience he has gained have further strengthened his football vision.
How did your journey in women’s football begin, and how did your path cross with our country?
For me, football is not only a sport but also a powerful instrument of social change. My interest in women’s football began when I realized the impact football can have on society. The idea of making women more visible in sports, enabling them to express themselves, and providing them with professional opportunities motivated me to dedicate myself to this field.
During my time working in Türkiye, I had the opportunity to closely observe the development potential of women’s football. Later, when my path crossed with Azerbaijan, I recognized a significant level of talent and energy here. Although women’s football in Azerbaijan is still in a developmental phase, I strongly believe that with proper planning and sustainable investment, it can reach an important international level. This potential has been one of the main motivations behind my work here.
In your opinion, what are the main differences between women’s football in Azerbaijan and Türkiye?
The biggest differences lie in structure and sustainability. In recent years, women’s football in Türkiye has received substantial investment. With major men’s football clubs establishing women’s teams, the visibility of the league has significantly increased. Media attention, sponsorship support, and fan interest have reached a considerable level, contributing to a more professional environment for player development.
In Azerbaijan, however, the main challenge is that the system has not yet been fully established. There is undeniable talent, but the ecosystem necessary to develop that talent is still evolving. Youth leagues, regional academies, coach education programs, and the number of professional clubs are not yet at the desired level.
Another important difference is the social perspective. In Türkiye, families attitudes toward women’s football have changed considerably in recent years. A similar transformation has begun in Azerbaijan, although certain prejudices still persist. Changing these perceptions will naturally take time.
What is the biggest structural challenge facing women’s football in Azerbaijan?
The most significant issue is the limited scope of the youth development system.
If regular football education is not provided from the ages of 10 to 12, it becomes extremely difficult to compete at the national team level in later years. Today’s successes are, in fact, the result of systems established many years ago.
Another important issue is the limited football infrastructure in the regions outside the capital. Football development should not be concentrated solely in the capital city. Regional academies, school leagues, and football organizations for girls should be expanded across the country.
- The number of professional coaches should be increased,
- Club academies should be strengthened,
- The competitiveness of the leagues should be improved,
- Player monitoring and scouting systems should be further developed.
Since taking office, what has been the most tangible change in women’s football in Azerbaijan?
In my opinion, the most important change has been in the overall mindset. People have started to view women’s football not merely as a social project, but as a professional sporting discipline.
- League organization has become more systematic,
- New development programs for young players have been introduced,
- International collaborations have been strengthened,
- Greater importance has been placed on technical staff and coach education,
- Clubs have shown increased interest in women’s football.
Most importantly, young girls have started to see football as a genuine career opportunity.
Do you see women’s football in Azerbaijan as a form of “soft power”? What are the short-term and long-term goals?
Today, sport is no longer merely a field of competition; it is also an important instrument representing countries on the international stage. Women’s football, in particular, is a highly effective platform for social development, women’s empowerment, and the promotion of a modern societal vision.
Azerbaijan also has significant potential to increase its international visibility through this field. Hosting major tournaments, taking active roles in UEFA and FIFA projects, and supporting the development of national teams can all contribute to the country’s sports diplomacy.
Short-term goals:
- Strengthening the domestic league structure,
- Expanding the youth player pool,
- Increasing the competitiveness of the national team,
- Improving coach and referee education programs.
Long-term goals:
- Building a national team capable of competing at the European level,
- Establishing strong women’s football academies,
- Increasing the number of Azerbaijani players transferring to European clubs,
- Positioning women’s football as one of the country’s major sports brands.
What should be the primary priority in women’s football?
Infrastructure or elite-level competition?
The primary priority must be youth development and infrastructure. Without a strong foundation, it is impossible to achieve sustainable success at the elite level.
If new talents are not continuously introduced into the system every year, success becomes purely coincidental. Elite teams may deliver short-term results, but long-term progress depends on school football, academies, and age-group development structures.
Coach education or player development?
These two elements cannot be considered separately. Without qualified coaches, it is impossible to develop high-quality players.
A coach is not merely someone who teaches tactics; a coach is also a leader, educator, and mentor. Especially in women’s football, proper communication and a healthy development model are critically important.
- The number of UEFA-licensed coaches should be increased,
- The development of female coaches should be supported,
- Modern football methodologies should be implemented.
Domestic league or player export?
First and foremost, a strong domestic league must be established, because without a solid league structure, it is difficult to develop high-quality players.
However, player exports are also extremely important. Footballers playing in Europe gain:
- Experience competing at a higher tempo,
- Professional development opportunities,
- Valuable experience that they can bring back to the national team.
The ideal model is one in which the domestic league develops players and those who reach a certain level continue their careers in European football.
What is your thoughts on the “Kristal Ayaklar Women Football Award Ceremony in Türkiye?
Such organizations are extremely valuable for increasing the visibility of women’s football. Footballers deserve recognition not only on the pitch but also within society.
Award ceremonies such as the “Kristal Ayaklar” Awards:
- Increase players motivation,
- Inspire young girls,
- Attract greater media attention to women’s football,
- Contribute to changing social perceptions.
Most importantly, they support the recognition of women’s football not only as a sporting discipline, but also as a cultural value. The continuity of such organizations is of great importance for the future development of women’s football.
