Shatskikh: “What Can Ukraine Learn from Uzbek Football?”

The Uzbekistan national team won a historic ticket to the 2026 World Cup for the first time. The 0:0 draw against the UAE is not just a major sporting event, but marks a new stage for the country’s football as a whole. This success sparked great interest both inside the country and on the international scene.

Inspired by this achievement, Ukrainian journalist Vladyslav Lyutostansky spoke with the legend of “Dynamo Kyiv” and current Andijon coach Maksim Shatskikh. He talked about his homeland national team’s success and the differences between the football of the two countries.

"Football is developing very rapidly in Uzbekistan"

According to Shatskikh, deep reforms are underway in the country’s football sector: infrastructures are being updated, modern bases for national teams are being built, and youth football is developing.

“In recent years, children’s and youth football has been developing rapidly in Uzbekistan. This is not a process of a single day, but the right path has been chosen and the results are already visible,” he said.

What can Ukraine learn?

When the journalist asked which aspects the Ukrainian national team could learn from Uzbekistan, Shatskikh replied: “This is a very difficult question.” However, he said: “Now in Ukraine there is a process of generational change. Young players need time, but there is never enough of it. Still, I think Ukraine will pass the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. France is strong, but Iceland and Azerbaijan are opponents that can be beaten.”

There are good players, but no demand

According to Shatskikh, Uzbek players are not getting enough attention in Ukraine. “Maybe nobody is looking at them, or because of the current situation (war) no one is studying this market. But this is not right. For example, during my time at ‘Pakhtakor’ we formed a squad that became the future of Uzbekistan’s national team. Now they are playing in the Olympic team,” he said.

Yakhshiboev – talent exists, but little discipline

Answering a question about Jasur Yakhshiboev, Shatskikh gave a high assessment of his talent, but noted his character problems. “He is a smart, unusual player. If he overcomes problems with discipline and character, he will undoubtedly play at the highest level. I have spoken with him several times. But professionalism is not measured only by technical skills,” the coach said.

Conclusion
According to Shatskikh, the Uzbek football market currently has great potential. “Dynamo”, “Polesye” or other UPL clubs could find good performers for themselves if they watched this market carefully. But for now, most opportunities are heading towards Eastern countries — Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, China, and others.

Overall, the development of Uzbek football, the national team’s entry into the World Cup, and the potential of the young generation can make this country a leading football nation in Asia in the future. And in Shatskikh’s opinion, this is proven not by words, but by deeds. Read 'Zamin' on Telegram!