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Uzbekistan, Uzbekistan national football team, Qatar, 2026 FIFA World Cup
Uzbekistan Qualifies for 2026 FIFA World Cup
Historic Victory for Central Asian Nation
In a thrilling match that went down to the final minutes, the Uzbekistan national football team secured a historic victory over their opponents, Qatar, to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This marks the first time Uzbekistan has qualified for the prestigious tournament.
Uzbekistan's Road to the World Cup
Uzbekistan's journey to the World Cup began in the first round of the Asian qualifiers, where they faced off against Syria, Lebanon, and the Maldives. The team topped their group with a perfect record, winning all six matches.
In the second round, Uzbekistan was drawn into a tougher group that included Saudi Arabia, Japan, Australia, China, and Oman. Despite facing some of the strongest teams in Asia, Uzbekistan finished in third place, securing a spot in the inter-continental play-offs.
Play-off Victory over Qatar
The inter-continental play-offs saw Uzbekistan pitted against Qatar, the hosts of the 2022 FIFA World Cup. The first leg of the tie was played in Doha, where the two teams played out a 0-0 draw.
In the second leg, held in Tashkent, Uzbekistan took an early lead and held on for a 1-0 victory. Eldor Shomurodov scored the winning goal in the 60th minute, sending the home crowd into raptures.
Uzbekistan's First World Cup Appearance
Uzbekistan's qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup is a historic moment for the nation. It is the first time the country has qualified for the tournament, and it is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players and coaching staff.
The World Cup will be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 8 to July 3, 2026. Uzbekistan will be hoping to make a strong showing in their first appearance at the tournament.
Uzbekistan's World Cup History
Uzbekistan has never qualified for the FIFA World Cup before. The team's best result in the Asian qualifiers came in 2010 when they finished fourth in their group.
Uzbekistan's qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup is a major milestone for the country and a sign of the progress that has been made by the team in recent years.