Uzbekistan came from behind to secure a 3-1 victory over Gabon in their FIFA Series match, producing a confident second-half performance to seal the result late on.
Match overview
The hosts fell behind early, with Averlan opening the scoring in the sixth minute. Uzbekistan, however, quickly regained control and began to lead the game.
They drew level from a set piece, as Eldor Shomurodov calmly slotted home after a delivery from Ganiev. The equaliser lifted the team, who grew in confidence as the match progressed.
After the break, Uzbekistan increased the pressure, enjoying more possession and creating several chances in the final third. Their efforts paid off in the 59th minute when Urozov put them ahead, reacting quickest to convert the rebound after the goalkeeper’s save.
Closing stages
Gabon pushed forward in search of an equaliser and applied sustained pressure, sending balls into the penalty area. Uzbekistan’s defence held firm, blocking several dangerous attempts.
A controversial moment followed when the referee declined to award a penalty to the visitors, prompting protests from the Gabon players.
Odilov put the result beyond doubt in the 90th minute, scoring Uzbekistan’s third to wrap up the win.
Defender’s absence
Defender Abdukodir Khusanov did not feature in the match due to suspension following a red card received in the final of the Al Ain International Cup in the UAE last November.
In that match against Iran, which ended goalless in regular time, Khusanov was sent off in the 69th minute for stopping a promising attack. Despite being reduced to 10 men, Uzbekistan held on and went on to win 4-3 on penalties.
The friendly between Uzbekistan and Gabon was played at Bunyodkor Stadium in Tashkent as part of the FIFA Series, where Uzbekistan are grouped with Venezuela, Gabon, and Trinidad and Tobago.
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