Shavkat Mirziyoyev: "The pride of Uzbekistan is the players of our national team!"

Another new, bright and unforgettable page has been added to the history of Uzbek football. The national team of the country qualified for the World Cup for the first time, fulfilling the dreams of millions of Uzbek fans. The draw against the United Arab Emirates in Abu Dhabi on June 5 opened the doors of the World Cup for Uzbekistan.

After the match, the head of our country, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, called our players and congratulated them from the bottom of his heart. The President emphasized that this great achievement of our national team is of great importance for the history of Uzbekistan.

In his congratulatory message, the President said: “Although your matches in the qualifying round were played against strong opponents and under serious pressure, you resolutely achieved the necessary results and raised the honor of our country. Our compatriots will never forget your courage and heroism in each match. I sincerely congratulate all our coaches, players, and especially my children, who are my compatriots.”

Shavkat Mirziyoyev particularly emphasized the heroism of Utkirbek Yusupov, who defended Uzbekistan's goal in the match against the UAE. "Utkirbek became a real hero today. He skillfully blocked the opponent's dangerous shots six times and led our national team to the World Cup. I express my gratitude to him six times," the head of state said.

In his speech, the President also highly appreciated the work of our football players, who are the leaders of the national team. In particular, the confident play of Otabek Shukurov, Odiljon Khamrobekov, and Husniddin Alikulov on the field and the ability to limit the opponent's movements, the quick and unique style of Abbasbek Fayzullaev that discouraged the opponent, as well as the leadership qualities of Eldor Shomurodov and Jaloliddin Masharipov on the field were also recognized.

At the same time, the head of state announced that he would award all members of our national team with a high award - the title of "Pride of Uzbekistan". The president said this: "Timur Tahirovich [Kapadze], I also express my gratitude to you. I am signing a decree on awarding all members of our national team with the title of "Pride of Uzbekistan". This is a sign of my respect and attention to you, our selfless footballers.”

President Mirziyoyev once again spoke with goalkeeper Yusupov and noted his heroism for the team: “Utkirbek, I consider you a hero of our country. I will personally meet you, hug you and express my sincere gratitude,” he emphasized.

Thus, the Uzbek national team has received high recognition and support not only from fans, but also from the head of state. In particular, this victory is perceived as a great achievement, which has been the dream of all Uzbeks and has been awaited for several decades.

In the history of Uzbek football, there have been many attempts to qualify for the World Cup. In this qualifying round, our national team succeeded in fierce competition and demonstrated its strength to the whole world.

After that, our national team will defend the honor of Uzbekistan at the World Cup next year in the USA, Canada and Mexico. This is the opening of another new historical page for our country.

Participation in high-level international tournaments will mark a new stage in the development of Uzbek football. This will be a great source of inspiration for young players and serve as an unparalleled example for future generations.

Thus, such high attention paid by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev to the players of the national team will give our players strength and enthusiasm to strive for even greater heights. The population of our country will also continue to support their heroes.

This historical event will remain unforgettable for everyone. Now Uzbekistan will take its place in world football and will wave its national flag on the largest football fields in the world.

This great victory will once again make Uzbekistan famous in the eyes of the world community and will be the pride and honor of our nation. This is a source of joy and honor for the entire Uzbek people.