Three defeats, two historic goals: How did the AFC assess Uzbekistan?

Uzbekistan’s national team ended its first World Cup on a difficult note in terms of results: three matches, three defeats and last place in the group. Yet behind the numbers remain two goals that entered the country’s football history, invaluable experience and serious conclusions that must be drawn for the future.

Reviewing the performances of the Asian representatives at the World Cup, the Asian Football Confederation highlighted that Uzbekistan’s debut had positive aspects beyond the result. A record nine teams from Asia took part in the 2026 World Cup.

A historic goal against Colombia sparked hope

Uzbekistan played its opening match in Group K against Colombia and lost 1–3. The scoreline did not reflect an easy victory for the South Americans: Fabio Cannavaro’s side tried to keep their opponents under pressure until the final minutes.

Daniel Muñoz put Colombia ahead shortly before half-time, while Abbosbek Fayzullaev equalised in the 60th minute. He thus became the first Uzbek footballer to score at a World Cup. However, five minutes later Luis Díaz restored Colombia’s lead, and Jaminton Campaz completed the scoring in added time.

The AFC noted that after the match, Cannavaro specifically praised his players’ discipline and determination. According to the Italian coach, despite the pressure of the big stage, the debutants forced an experienced opponent to work hard for victory.

Portugal showed the difference in quality

In the second round, Uzbekistan faced one of the tournament favourites, Portugal. This time, the opponents’ level and individual quality proved decisive, with the match ending 0–5.

Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice in the first half. Nuno Mendes and Rafael Leão also got on the scoresheet, while another goal Abdukodir Khusanov’s was recorded as an own goal. Ronaldo became the first player in history to score at six different World Cups.

After two consecutive defeats, Uzbekistan’s chances of reaching the knockout stage had fallen sharply. Even a victory over the Democratic Republic of the Congo would not have guaranteed progression, but it could have kept alive the possibility of finishing among the best third-placed teams.

What changed after Shomurodov’s goal?

The decisive match began like a dream for Uzbekistan. In the 10th minute, Eldor Shomurodov opened the scoring with a superb finish from a difficult angle.

Uzbekistan were ahead at half-time. After the break, however, DR Congo increased the pressure. Yoane Wissa equalised from the penalty spot in the 68th minute, and Fiston Mayele put the Africans ahead in the 78th. Wissa scored his second goal in added time to secure a 3–1 victory.

Shomurodov’s goal remained one of Uzbekistan’s brightest moments at the World Cup. In a fan vote, it was chosen as the best goal of the group stage. The Uzbekistan captain finished ahead of stars such as Lionel Messi and Vinícius Júnior with 36% of the vote.

A difficult result, but a worthwhile debut

Uzbekistan finished the group stage without a point. The national team scored twice in three matches and conceded 11 goals.

These figures point to problems with defensive errors, adapting to a high tempo and changing the game plan during matches. The lack of the composure and international experience needed to protect a lead was particularly evident in the second half against DR Congo.

At the same time, qualifying for the World Cup itself was a historic milestone for Uzbek football. Abbosbek Fayzullaev scored the country’s first World Cup goal, while Eldor Shomurodov produced one of the tournament’s finest strikes.

After the tournament, Fabio Cannavaro stressed the need to continue investing in youth academies, infrastructure and young players to develop Uzbek football. In his view, the difficult lessons from the World Cup should provide a foundation for future growth.

The next main target is the Asian Cup

The World Cup chapter is closed, but the national team now faces another major test. The 2027 AFC Asian Cup will be held from 7 January to 5 February in Saudi Arabia. Uzbekistan will compete in Group B alongside Bahrain, North Korea and Jordan.

After three defeats at the World Cup, the national team needs not only psychological recovery but also further consolidation of its playing style. The explanation that “we gained experience” will no longer be enough—the results of that experience must be visible at the Asian Cup.

Uzbekistan’s first World Cup ended without a victory. However, this is not the end, but could be the beginning of a new stage shaped by a closer understanding of the demands of international football. Leave your thoughts in the comments and share the article with sports fans on Telegram or other social networks!