"After coming here, I realized that this is the real hometown of soccer," said Alikar Abdulushur, a player from the Changji team. "I also really like the fans here. Their desire for soccer is incredible. Even grandpas in their 80s come here to cheer for us. I am very happy to be in such a good environment, which is essential for the development of Chinese soccer."

Not far from the pitch, 30 or so booths sell food such as pilaf, baked buns and freshly squeezed pomegranate juice.

Tursun Memet, who sells baked mutton, said he has earned 600 yuan a day on average so far during the competition.

Speaking of the positive impact that soccer has had on the local community, Li Xinbin, Party secretary of Artux, said: "Our soccer players contribute to major matches. Female soccer is developing fast, and soccer infrastructure is becoming optimized. And the spirit of openness, inclusiveness, teamwork and perseverance from soccer has inspired people from all ethnic groups."

He added that especially in Eksak, soccer has become part of the villagers' blood and soul.

"From stumbling toddlers to elderly people, every moment is filled with passion. For them, soccer is honor and life, and it hasn't changed for more than a century," he said.

The tournament will run until Wednesday.

Zhang Feng contributed to this story.