Uzbekistan Beats Iran in CAFA Nations Cup 2025 Final
The CAFA Nations Cup 2025 reached a dramatic conclusion at Tashkent’s Olympic Stadium as Uzbekistan defeated Iran 1-0 thanks to a late extra-time strike from Khojiakbar Alijonov.
Early Drama
The match started at a frantic pace with both sides showing intensity. Just five minutes in, Iran were reduced to ten men after defender Aria Yousufi was sent off. Uzbekistan pressed their advantage and created several chances, but efforts from Abbosbek Fayzullaev and Jasurbek Alikulov failed to find the net.
In the second half, the hosts made attacking changes with Igor Sergeev and Oston Urunov coming on, yet Iran held firm and normal time ended goalless. Tension peaked in the 89th minute when Alijonov was shown a red card, but VAR downgraded it to a yellow.
Extra-Time Decider
The breakthrough almost came earlier in extra time when Uzbekistan were awarded a penalty for a foul on Urunov. Captain Eldor Shomurodov stepped up but fired wide from the spot in the 105th minute.
The decisive moment arrived in the 118th minute. After a sustained attack and a fortunate deflection, the ball fell to Alijonov, who powered a header into the net to seal a historic win.
Historic Triumph
The final brought unforgettable drama and crowned Uzbekistan as champions of the CAFA Nations Cup 2025. Key moments included:
- Yousufi’s early red card for Iran
- Alijonov’s downgraded red card near the end of normal time
- Shomurodov’s missed penalty in extra time
- Alijonov’s winning goal in the 118th minute
The victory marks a major achievement for Uzbekistan, thrilling home fans and confirming their progress on the regional stage.
Kursiv also reports that the Uzbekistan national football team claimed a convincing 4-0 victory against Kyrgyzstan, securing their place in the final of the CAFA Nations Cup 2025.
