The FIFA U-17 World Cup is in full swing in Qatar. Young talents from 48 countries from all continents are participating in this prestigious competition. The Uzbekistan national team, the reigning Asian champion, defends the honor not only of our country, but of the entire continent.
The U-17 national team, led by Islam Ismailov, played its second match in Group J against the youth of the Republic of Ireland. In the first round, the Irish defeated Panama with a score of 4:1, and the Uzbek youth won against Paraguay with a score of 2:1. Therefore, this clash became a decisive test for the leaders of the two groups - the winning team would definitely advance to the next stage ahead of schedule.
The Uzbekistan team started the game in high spirits and opened the scoring first. In the 20th minute, Abubakr Shukrullayev accurately sent the ball into the net after the opposing goalkeeper saved it, putting our team ahead. However, unfortunately, this advantage did not last long.
In the 33rd minute, Ireland's Grady McDonnell, receiving a pass from teammate Ade Solanke, jumped over our defenders and delivered a precise header to equalize the score. In the second half, both teams created several dangerous situations. However, in the 75th minute, Irishman Michael Nunen took advantage of the opportunity created in the opponent's penalty area and scored the winning goal.
The Uzbekistan national team didn't stop fighting even in the final minutes. Mo'minxon Bahodirxonov had a good opportunity to equalize, but he couldn't convert it.
The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) explained the result as follows:
"After losing 1:2 to Ireland in the ongoing World Cup in Qatar, the Uzbekistan national team missed the opportunity to advance to the playoffs ahead of schedule. However, there is still an opportunity. Now Uzbek youth can guarantee their advancement to the next stage by winning against Panama," wrote the-afc.com website.
Currently, Ireland leads Group J with two victories. Uzbekistan and Paraguay have 3 points each, while Panama hasn't scored yet. Our national team will now play the decisive match against Panama on November 11.
At the tournament in Qatar, the national teams of Ireland, Argentina, Brazil, Italy, Portugal, Zambia, Austria, and the USA have already qualified for the playoffs.
The youth of Uzbekistan have not yet spoken on the field. For them, the next match will be not only a victory, but also a struggle for the honor of the nation.
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