Uzbekistan U-20 dominant in Asian Cup qualifying victory over Syria
The Uzbekistan U-20 national football team concluded their AFC Asian Cup qualifying campaign with a decisive 3-0 victory over Syria on Sunday night. The dominant performance in Tashkent secured a perfect nine points from three matches and guaranteed the squad a place at the 2027 tournament in China.
Manager Jamoliddin Rakhmatullaev saw his team assert control immediately. The hosts opened the scoring just 10 minutes into the first half when Diyor Ermanov found the back of the net. Uzbekistan dictated possession for the remainder of the opening period, while goalkeeper Nematulloh Rustamjonov was rarely tested by the Syrian attack.
Substitutions secure the result
Seeking to maintain their high intensity, the coaching staff introduced a wave of fresh players after the break. Substitutes Asilbek Abdurasulov, Tohir Ashurboyev, Azizbek Erimbetov and Husan Kopaysinov provided crucial energy as the match progressed.
The tactical changes paid off late in the game. In the 81st minute, Kuvonchbek Abrayev finished a clinical attacking move to double the advantage. Shortly after his goal, Asilbek Aliyev replaced Abrayev.
The hosts cemented the final score deep into stoppage time. The referee awarded a penalty in the 94th minute, which Davron Tulaganov confidently converted.
Uzbekistan’s youth side finishes the qualification phase with nine goals scored and zero conceded. Syria remains in third place in Group B with three points, trailing second-place India, who defeated Bangladesh 3-0 in their final fixture.
