The Uzbek capital of Tashkent will host the Festival for South-Central region from March 13 and the UFF is all geared up to host the talented youngsters from Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan.

“The UFF pays special attention to youth development and hosting the festival every year shows your commitment,” he told the-afc.com.

An AFC ‘C’ certificate coaching course, preparatory course for referees, head coaches workshop and an S2S programme will be held in the first week of the Festival.

“The Festival will give the youngsters an opportunity to gain experience and prepare for future competitions,” he said.

“The aspiring coaches and referees also get benefit from this Festival and I am sure this will produce stars of the future.”