Uzbekistan is preparing for its historic debut at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after becoming the first Central Asian nation ever to qualify for football’s biggest tournament.
The Uzbek national team secured qualification following a goalless draw against the United Arab Emirates in the Asian qualifiers, ending decades of near misses and heartbreak.
Led by head coach Timur Kapadze, Uzbekistan’s squad features rising stars including Manchester City defender Abdukodir Khusanov, Roma striker Eldor Shomurodov and CSKA Moscow winger Abbosbek Fayzullaev. Analysts say the team’s disciplined defense and strong youth development system have played a major role in its success.
Uzbekistan has been drawn into Group K alongside Portugal, Colombia and DR Congo for the tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Football experts describe Uzbekistan’s qualification as one of the country’s biggest sporting achievements since independence, with celebrations taking place across the nation after the team booked its place at the World Cup.
