FC Istiklol Dushanbe is the dominant force in Tajikistani football, a club based in the capital city of Dushanbe that competes in the Tajikistan Higher League. They play their home matches at the Central Republican Stadium, a national arena. Founded in 2007, Istiklol, which means "Independence," quickly rose to become a powerhouse, ending the hegemony of older clubs. The club's peak era is ongoing, defined by an unprecedented streak of league championships that has lasted over a decade, establishing a domestic dynasty. They have also become regular participants in the AFC Cup, Asia's secondary club competition, achieving remarkable success including winning the title in 2021. The modern squad is a blend of the best Tajikistani internationals and high-quality foreign imports, playing an assertive and technically proficient style of football. The club is owned by major national companies and enjoys immense popularity. Their matches in Dushanbe draw large crowds, and they have set a new standard for professionalism and success in Tajik football, becoming the nation's most recognizable sporting export.