Major International Hockey Tournament Set to Take Place in Uzbekistan

Tashkent, The Gulf Observer: Excitement fills the air as Uzbekistan prepares to host a significant international event in the realm of hockey. From April 23 to April 30, 2024, the spotlight will shine on Tashkent and Samarkand as they welcome teams from across Asia and Oceania for a thrilling competition.

This prestigious tournament follows the resounding success of the first Asian and Oceanian Championship for junior teams under 18, which unfolded in March 2023 in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. During that event, Uzbekistan’s national team showcased remarkable prowess, securing victories in all five matches against formidable opponents from Mongolia, Turkmenistan, the UAE, Thailand, and Iran. Their triumph culminated in lifting the coveted Winners’ Cup, with young talent Zhasurbek Rustamkhonov emerging as the top scorer of the Championship.

The exceptional performance of Uzbekistan’s junior hockey team garnered praise from none other than the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, who highlighted this achievement in his congratulatory speech during the spring holiday Navruz.

As a result of their victory, Uzbekistan earned the esteemed privilege of hosting the tournament under the auspices of the International Hockey Federation (IIHF) in 2024. Building upon the momentum of the previous championship, this year’s tournament promises even greater participation, with 10 junior teams from the region vying for glory.

The tournament format is as follows: participating teams will be divided into two groups, each engaging in matches against four opponents. Group A clashes will unfold at the Humo Arena in Tashkent, featuring junior teams from Uzbekistan, Thailand, Iran, Malaysia, and Kuwait. Meanwhile, Group B battles will take place in Samarkand, where teams from Mongolia, the UAE, India, Macau, and Indonesia will test their mettle.

Following the group stage, teams will progress to play-off matches in Tashkent to determine rankings from 1st to 9th place.

With the championship title to defend, Uzbekistan’s Hockey Federation extends a warm invitation to hockey enthusiasts to witness the exhilarating matches and rally behind the young athletes representing Uzbekistan on the international stage.