Qualification Journey

Uzbekistan secured their historic spot in the 2026 World Cup with a hard-fought 0-0 draw against the UAE at Al Nahyan Stadium in Abu Dhabi. This result marked Uzbekistan’s first-ever qualification for the FIFA World Cup finals, making them the first Central Asian nation to reach this milestone.

The qualification campaign was marked by several key moments:

• Unbeaten run throughout the second qualifying round (4 wins, 2 draws)
• Finishing second in AFC Third Round Group A behind Iran
• Crucial goalless draws against Iran (twice) showing defensive resilience
• Goalkeeper Utkir Yusupov’s heroic performance with 6 saves against UAE
• Qualification secured with one match to spare

Known as “The White Wolves,” Uzbekistan had attempted to qualify for the World Cup seven times since gaining independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. The team suffered heartbreak in previous campaigns, notably missing out in the final stages for the 2006 and 2014 World Cups.

This qualification marks not just Uzbekistan’s first appearance in the FIFA World Cup, but also makes them the first Central Asian nation to join the world’s biggest football tournament. With a current FIFA ranking of 57th, they proved that determination and strategic development can overcome the odds.