FIFA Reviews Uzbekistan's Historic World Cup Debut

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — FIFA has reviewed Uzbekistan's performance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, describing the national team's participation as a historic debut at football's premier tournament.

In its published review, FIFA noted that Uzbekistan's campaign ended in the group stage, but said the country's first appearance at the World Cup marked an important milestone in the history of its national football team.

The governing body highlighted midfielder Abbosbek Fayzullayev, who scored Uzbekistan's first-ever FIFA World Cup goal against Colombia. It also noted that Eldor Shomurodov's goal against the Democratic Republic of the Congo was voted the best goal of the group stage in a poll organised with Hyundai.

According to FIFA, Fabio Cannavaro's side remained committed throughout the tournament to its playing style, based on technical football and strong commitment. At the same time, the organisation noted that the players found it increasingly difficult to maintain the high tempo of matches as the tournament progressed.

The review also gave special attention to young players, including 18-year-old Bekhruz Karimov.

FIFA said that participation in the World Cup had given the team's young players valuable experience competing at the highest level, which should help Uzbekistan take the next step in its development ahead of the next World Cup in four years.