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Alexander IsakovFormer Latvian footballer, defender
Date of Birth: 16.09.1973
Country:  Latvia |
Content:
- Early Life and Career
- First Team Experience
- Club Career
- Russian Adventure and Return to Latvia
- Success with Skonto Riga
- Retirement and Farewell Match
- International Career
- Post-Football Career
- Head of Sports Management
- Personal Life
Early Life and Career
Childhood in DaugavpilsMihails Zemļinskis was born in Daugavpils, Latvia. He began his football journey at the local sports school, where he was coached by Alexander Rashchenkov and Gennady Pashin.
First Team Experience
In 1990, after graduating from the sports school, Zemļinskis joined the "Stroitel" team. He spent the first two years primarily as a substitute, gaining experience from his senior teammates.
Club Career
Domestic Success in LatviaFrom 1992 to 1999, Zemļinskis played for various clubs in Daugavpils, including Daugava and Dinaburg. He left a mark in the Latvian league with his strong defensive performances.
Russian Adventure and Return to Latvia
In 1999, Zemļinskis moved to the Russian club Lokomotiv Nizhny Novgorod. Despite limited playing time, he gained valuable experience. He later joined Alania and Volgar-Gazprom before returning to Latvia in 2000 to play for Dinaburg.
Success with Skonto Riga
In 2002, Zemļinskis joined Skonto Riga, the leading club in Latvia. He became a key defender for the team, winning three consecutive league titles from 2002 to 2004.
Retirement and Farewell Match
After a brief spell with Daugava Daugavpils in 2007, Zemļinskis retired from professional football. On July 19, 2008, he played his farewell match at the "Daugava" stadium in Daugavpils, where he played for the "Legends" team in a 4-4 draw.
International Career
Latvia National TeamZemļinskis represented Latvia from 1997 to 2005, earning 58 caps. He was a member of the team that qualified for the 2004 European Championship.
Post-Football Career
Director of FK DaugavaFollowing his retirement, Zemļinskis became the Director of FK Daugava in 2007.
Head of Sports Management
In 2009, Zemļinskis was appointed as the Head of the Sports Management Department in Daugavpils. He was tasked with reforming the city's sports programs amidst economic challenges.
