Uzbekistan Qualifies for FIFA World Cup for the First Time in History
Tashkent, The Gulf Observer: Today marks a historic milestone for Uzbekistan as the national football team secures its first-ever qualification for the FIFA World Cup, a dream nearly three decades in the making.
In the 9th round of the third qualifying stage for the FIFA World Cup 2026 in the Asian region, Uzbekistan faced the United Arab Emirates in an away match that ended in a 0–0 draw. With this result, the Uzbekistan national team has earned a place in the world’s most prestigious football tournament for the first time in its history.
This momentous achievement signals the beginning of a new era for Uzbek football. It is the culmination of years of comprehensive reforms in the country’s sports sector, particularly in football. Through the development of a national football model, what once appeared to be an elusive goal has now been transformed into a remarkable reality.
Uzbekistan’s qualification is more than a sporting triumph—it is a profound source of national pride. It reflects the effective implementation of state policies in support of sports and youth, and serves as a tangible demonstration of the nation’s growing international presence in athletics.
The Uzbekistan national team will now prepare for its final Group A match against Qatar, scheduled to take place on June 10 in Tashkent.
Uzbekistan will proudly represent the nation on the world stage at the FIFA World Cup 2026, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
