Decisive match: Uzbekistan faces Iran for a World Cup spot  

The third qualifying round of the Asian region for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, has reached a crucial stage. Today, as part of the eighth round of Group A, three key matches are on the agenda: Kyrgyzstan vs. Qatar, Iran vs. Uzbekistan, and North Korea vs. the UAE. Among these, the most significant for Uzbek football fans is the match against Iran in Tehran.  

Victory today could secure Uzbekistan’s World Cup spot

Group A leaders Iran and Uzbekistan will face off in the eighth-round clash. A draw would be enough to secure Iran’s place in the World Cup, meaning the Iranian side will play with minimal pressure. However, if Uzbekistan wins, it will reach 19 points, equaling Iran. The pressure and motivation will be on the Uzbek players, as a victory, combined with Qatar and the UAE dropping points, could see Uzbekistan qualify for the 2026 World Cup ahead of schedule—fulfilling a long-held dream.  

Uzbekistan travels to Tehran with key absences

According to the Uzbekistan Football Association, Oston Urunov will miss today’s crucial match due to injury. He has already left the Uzbekistan camp and joined his club, Persepolis. Additionally, Jaloliddin Masharipov, who received a yellow card in the match against Kyrgyzstan at Bunyodkor Stadium in Tashkent on March 20, is suspended for this game. Earlier, defender Husniddin Aliqulov, who was unable to join the national team’s training camp due to injury, was also ruled out of the squad.  

For reference, the Iran-Uzbekistan match will take place today, March 25, at Azadi Stadium in Tehran. Kickoff is scheduled for 21:00 Tashkent time.