Uzbekistan's national team qualifying for the World Cup for the first time has sparked significant discussions not only in our country but also in the international football arena. This achievement is highly regarded by experts, renowned coaches, and former players. Today, we present some thoughts from prominent figures on this matter.
Yuriy Syomin: "Football in Uzbekistan is entering a new stage"
Famous Russian specialist Yuriy Syomin, who has worked with "Lokomotiv Moscow" and "Dynamo Kyiv," emphasizes that the growth of Uzbekistan football is consistent and noticeable.
“The potential of football in Uzbekistan is growing. Pay attention to the players they are training: Abbosbek Fayzullayev is playing for us. Another talent — Abduqodir Husanov is at a world grand like "Manchester City." This is a result of the work being done in youth and junior teams. We must not turn back from this path,” said Syomin.
In his opinion, a consistent system has been established in the Uzbekistan Football Federation. “Last year they participated in the Olympics, and now in the World Cup. This is not in vain — it is the result of serious reforms. New stars will definitely emerge from them in the near future,” he said.
Ja’far Irismetov: "This is the victory of the entire nation"
Former forward of the Uzbekistan national team Ja’far Irismetov described this achievement as a collective victory for the entire nation.
“Our boys have realized long-standing dreams. Every Uzbek felt proud upon hearing this news. Our footballers fought tirelessly on the field until the referee's whistle. Even one point opened the doors to the World Cup for us. This is a great success,” said Irismetov.
He emphasized that the team prepared very well and coach Timur Kapadze worked at a high level during this process. “The team played with a clear plan and discipline. The boys felt the responsibility fully. I congratulate Timur especially,” he said.
About the qualifying process
It should be noted that the third round of the qualifying stage for the 2026 World Cup in the Asian region was very intense. The Uzbekistan national team in Group "A" qualified directly for the World Cup alongside Iran. Only two teams from each group advance directly to the final stage.
The teams that finish in 3rd and 4th place in the group will continue to fight in an additional stage for the remaining qualifications. The Uzbekistan national team will play against Qatar in the last round on June 10 in Tashkent.
The 2026 World Cup will be held in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. For Uzbekistan, this will be the first participation in the World Cup in history, providing an opportunity to showcase its potential to the whole world.
The editorial team of Zamin.uz believes that our national team will perform successfully in this challenge and wishes victories alongside the fans.
