A Historic victory that united the nation
11.06.2025
On June 10,2025 the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev attended the national football team’s final qualifying match for the FIFA World Cup at the Bunyodkor Stadium, a truly historic and emotional moment for the entire nation.
In a triumphant culmination of years of effort and hope, Uzbekistan’s national football team has, for the first time in history, qualified for the FIFA World Cup! What once was a dream cherished by millions has now become a proud reality.
Previously, the team participated in seven qualification cycles but always fell just short due to unfavorable schedules, goal differences, or a lack of experience. Recognizing the need for structural reform and long-term investment, President Mirziyoyev initiated several nationwide football development programs. Beginning with the Presidential Resolution of March 16, 2018, and further strengthened by the Decree of December 4, 2019, and the 2023 Presidential Resolution on advancing grassroots and professional football, these measures laid a solid foundation for progress.
Thanks to this systematic support, the country saw its first major results:
-
In 2018, the U-23 team won the AFC Championship in China.
-
In 2023, the U-20 team replicated this success on home soil.
-
Uzbekistan began hosting FIFA and AFC tournaments.
-
In 2024, the U-23 squad made its Olympic debut.
-
In April 2025, the U-17 team won the AFC Asian Cup and qualified for the World Cup.
Now, the senior national team has achieved its historic breakthrough.
Uzbekistan played in Group A of the third qualifying stage, facing Iran, Qatar, the UAE, Kyrgyzstan, and North Korea. A decisive draw with the UAE on June 5 secured 18 points for the team — enough to qualify early for the 2026 World Cup.
President Mirziyoyev praised the team for their bravery and resilience:
“This historic victory will further unite our nation, serve as an inspiration for our youth, and enhance the global standing of New Uzbekistan.”
The final group-stage match, Uzbekistan vs. Qatar, turned into a nationwide celebration. Backed by an enthusiastic home crowd, Uzbekistan clinched a commanding 3–0 victory.
To honor this achievement, and in line with the Presidential Decree of June 6, several players and coaches received state awards for their contribution to youth development and national pride. President Mirziyoyev personally presented honorary titles, medals, and BYD brand cars to the recipients.
Distinguished guests in attendance included Bulgarian President Rumen Radev, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, and high-level representatives from Central Asian governments. The evening concluded with a spectacular drone show and fireworks display.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be held from June 11 to July 19 in the USA, Canada, and Mexico, featuring 48 teams divided into 12 groups. Uzbekistan’s passionate fans now eagerly await the next chapter of their team’s journey on the world stage.
A new era has begun — and Uzbekistan stands united behind its team.
