Almaty Akim Akhmetzhan Yesimov welcomes UEFA Finals

    The UEFA Futsal Cup comes to Almaty in one month's time and the city's Akim, Akhmetzhan Yesimov, is delighted to host the event.
    In the semi-finals at the Baluan Sholak Sport Palace on 29 April, hosts Kairat Almaty will play Sporting Clube de Portugal while holders SL Benfica will take on ASD Città di Montesilvano C/5, with the final and third-place play-off following two days later.
    The Almaty Akim helped make the finals draw earlier this month and cannot wait for Kazakhstan to host its first UEFA final tournament.
    "I sincerely congratulate and welcome all football fans," he said in his welcome message for the competition.
    "There is no sense in talking about the popularity of football today – the game was No1 and still remains a favourite game for people of ages.
    "Staging the finals in Kazakhstan is a great honour not only for Kairat but for the entire country. For the first time in history the UEFA Futsal Cup finals will be held in Kazakhstan and Almaty. The strongest European club of 2010/11 will be identified according to the results of these finals.
    "Our legendary Kairat side hold a strong position among the game's elite and are a recognised European futsal team due to their successful performances on the continental scene.
    "The UEFA Futsal Cup is one of the most prestigious prizes in world football. I am glad that Kairat, due to their achievements and professional experience, have the opportunity to represent our country in these UEFA finals and to claim victory.
    "Let me wish all the participants victory, health and good luck. May the strongest club win," UEFA.com wrote.