Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan make their first-ever World Cup appearance in a qualification story that captured the imagination of Central Asian football. Srečko Katanec has modernised the side, instilling a solid structure. Abdukodir Khusanov's move to Manchester City made him the first Central Asian player at the Premier League's biggest club.
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Tactical Blueprint
A disciplined 4-4-2 or 4-3-3 with Katanec's emphasis on defensive structure and organised transitions. Khusanov provides leadership from defence; Shomurodov's Serie A experience gives them a technical striker capable of holding up play.
Key Personnel
Abdukodir Khusanov
Player · Manchester City
Eldor Shomurodov
Player · Başakşehir
Jaloliddin Masharipov
Player · Esteghlal
★ Tournament Lore
Uzbekistan's 2026 World Cup appearance is their first in the tournament's history — a milestone for Central Asian football.
Srečko Katanec brought valuable European and Asian qualifying expertise to successfully guide the team to their historic debut.
Abdukodir Khusanov's transfer to Manchester City in January 2025 made global headlines, showcasing the rising quality of Central Asian football.
