World Cup Preview: Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan arrive at the 2026 FIFA World Cup ready to make history. After decades of near misses and heartbreak in Asian qualification, the White Wolves have finally reached football’s biggest stage for the first time. With a talented generation of players coming into their prime and a World Cup-winning manager in the dugout, Uzbekistan will be determined to prove they belong among the world’s elite.
Fixtures (UK time)
Colombia, June 18, 3am
Portugal, June 23, 6pm
DR Congo, June 28, 12.30am
How They Qualified
Uzbekistan secured a historic World Cup berth through the Asian qualification process after years of falling agonisingly short. The Uzbeks produced a series of disciplined performances to finish second in their group, two points behind Iran. Qualification sparked celebrations across the country and marked the culmination of decades of investment in football development.
The Manager
Fabio Cannavaro is one of the most decorated figures in football history. The former Italy captain famously lifted the World Cup in 2006 before becoming the first defender since Franz Beckenbauer to win the Ballon d’Or. Following a distinguished playing career with Parma, Inter Milan, Juventus and Real Madrid, Cannavaro moved into coaching and managed clubs in China, Italy and Croatia before taking charge of Uzbekistan. The World Cup winner has brought invaluable experience and belief to a nation embarking on its first appearance at the finals.
The Star
Eldor Shomurodov is the face of Uzbek football and the country’s all-time leading goalscorer. He has made 61 appearances at current club Roma, and also spent time on loan at Cagliari and Spezia. Last season was his most prolific of his career, as he scored 22 goals in 34 games for Istanbul Basaksehir to finish as joint top-scorer in the Turkish league. As captain of the national team, Shomurodov combines leadership with a proven eye for goal and remains the player most likely to deliver decisive moments. His experience will be crucial as Uzbekistan navigate unfamiliar territory on the world’s biggest stage.
The Familiar Face
Abdukodir Khusanov‘s rapid rise has made him one of the most exciting prospects in Asian football, with his pace, composure and defensive intelligence attracting widespread praise. Despite his age, Khusanov has already become a key figure for the national team and is widely viewed as the cornerstone of Uzbekistan’s future. Many eyes will be on the Manchester City defender as he tests himself against the world’s best forwards.
Did you know?
Uzbekistan’s 2006 World Cup qualifying campaign was derailed by an inept referee. Their qualification play-off against Bahrain was forced to be replayed after a refereeing mistakenly gave a free kick after an Uzbekistan player encroached during a penalty kick in the first leg, and they ultimately missed out on away goals after a 1-1 aggregate draw.
The Prediction
Round of 32
Group K presents Uzbekistan with a genuine opportunity. Portugal are favourites to win the group, but Colombia and DR Congo are opponents the debutants can realistically compete with. Cannavaro’s side may lack World Cup experience, but they possess enough quality and organisation to remain in contention throughout the group stage. The expanded format significantly boosts their chances of progression, and a third-place finish could well be enough to secure a historic place in the knockout rounds.
