President Mirziyoyev praises Uzbekistan’s U-17 Asian champions

Uzbekistan’s President Shavkat Mirziyoyev extended heartfelt congratulations to the national U-17 football team for their victory in the Asian Cup held in Saudi Arabia. The President’s message was shared by his press service.

“I sincerely congratulate you on behalf of our people and myself for your successful participation in the prestigious tournament among players under 17, held in Saudi Arabian stadiums, and for claiming the highest award—the Asian Cup.

The way our young, energetic, and ambitious players participated throughout the tournament without a single defeat, achieving record results and defending the honor of our beloved Motherland with great valor, is undoubtedly a historic event that will be etched in the annals of national football with golden letters.

Especially in the final, against a formidable team like Saudi Arabia—the tournament hosts—your perseverance in playing with just nine players against eleven in a tense match demonstrates true courage and determination. The outstanding bravery and skill you displayed deserve the highest praise.

It is particularly noteworthy that three of our talented and skilled athletes earned individual awards at the end of the tournament. Nematulloh Rustamjonov was recognized as the best goalkeeper, Asilbek Aliev as the top scorer, and Sadriddin Khasanov as the best player.

Our people see in you the brightest representatives of the youth of New Uzbekistan, who always strive forward and conquer high peaks, and take great pride in you.

I sincerely express my heartfelt gratitude to you, your parents, and coaches for nurturing and supporting you to achieve this historic victory, which is also a testament to the great attention given to sports, including football, in our country.

I am confident that this victory will inspire you to represent Asia’s champion team with dignity at the World Cup in Qatar this November,” stated the President.

On April 20, Uzbekistan’s U-17 team defeated the host nation, Saudi Arabia, 2–0 in the Asian Cup final. Despite losing two players to red cards—Sarsenbayev in the 40th minute and Abdukarimov in the 45th minute—the team remained resilient. Muhammad Hakimov scored in the 50th minute to give Uzbekistan the lead, followed by Sadriddin Khasanov’s goal in the 70th minute to double the margin. Goalkeeper Rustamjonov made several crucial saves to secure the team’s victory.

Under coach Islam Ismoilov, Uzbekistan’s U-17 team claimed the championship title.

This victory marks the second time Uzbekistan’s U-17 national team has won the Asian Cup.