Uzbekistan Secures Quarter-Final Berth with a 2-1 Victory Over Thailand in Asian Cup
Doha, The Gulf Observer: In a thrilling last-16 encounter at the Asian Cup, Uzbekistan emerged victorious against Thailand with a 2-1 scoreline, paving their way into the quarter-finals where they are set to face hosts and defending champions, Qatar.
Uzbekistan took the lead in the first half when Diyor Holmatov delivered a perfectly lobbed cross-field ball into the box. Azizbek Turgunboev showcased exceptional skill, controlling the pass with his chest before volleying it past Thailand’s goalkeeper, Patiwat Khammai.
Thailand responded just before the hour mark, leveling the score with a spectacular long-range effort from Supachok Sarachat. Sarachat’s low, curling shot from over 25 yards out found the back of the net, catching Uzbekistan’s keeper, Utkir Yusupov, off guard.
The central Asian nation, however, regained their lead seven minutes later with a brilliant play from winger Abbosbek Fayzullaev. Fayzullaev swiftly turned his defender and fired a precise shot from the edge of the box. The low drive eluded the goalkeeper, securing Uzbekistan’s place in the quarter-finals.
The victory sets the stage for an exciting clash between Uzbekistan and Qatar in the upcoming quarter-final, as both teams vie for a coveted spot in the later stages of the prestigious Asian Cup.
