Kazakhstan Premier League – Match Report

Irtysh Pavlodar Edges Out Ulytau Zhezkazgan in Thrilling 2-1 Away Victory

In a tightly contested Kazakhstan Premier League fixture on 25 July 2026, Irtysh Pavlodar secured a valuable 2–1 win over Ulytau Zhezkazgan at the Ulytau Stadium. The result lifted Irtysh into the upper half of the table, while Ulytau remained in the relegation battle.

First Half: Cautious Start, Sudden Breakthrough

The opening 20 minutes saw both teams feeling each other out on a heavy pitch. Ulytau, playing with a compact 4-4-2, looked to hit on the counter, while Irtysh controlled possession through midfield. The deadlock was broken in the 27th minute when Irtysh's winger, Alisher Suleimenov, cut inside from the left and curled a low shot inside the far post. The goal came against the run of play but showcased the visitors' clinical edge.

Second Half: Ulytau Equalise, But Irtysh Strike Back

Ulytau came out with renewed energy after the break. Their relentless pressure paid off in the 54th minute. A corner kick was nodded down by defender Daniyar Kuanyshbay, and striker Maksat Baizhanov smashed the ball into the roof of the net from close range. The home crowd erupted, sensing a turnaround.

However, Irtysh responded just six minutes later. A quick break down the right flank saw substitute Ruslan Abikenov deliver a pinpoint cross to the far post, where midfielder Yerkin Tapalov headed home to restore the lead. Ulytau pushed for a second equaliser but could not find a way past Irtysh goalkeeper Aleksandr Mokin, who made two crucial saves in the final ten minutes.

Key Takeaways

• Match winner: Yerkin Tapalov's header proved decisive.
• Moment of the match: Irtysh's quick response after Ulytau's equaliser.
• Table implications: Irtysh climbed to 6th place, while Ulytau slipped to 11th.

Standout Players

Irtysh's Alisher Suleimenov was a constant threat, scoring the opener and creating chances. For Ulytau, Maksat Baizhanov led the line well and scored, but the team lacked precision in the final third when it mattered most.

The defeat leaves Ulytau with just one win in their last five matches, while Irtysh have now won three of their last four, showing strong form heading into the next round.