Uzbek players' memorable matches against Cristiano Ronaldo

For many footballers, playing alongside or against the world’s best players is a career highlight. This becomes even more significant when the opportunity involves Cristiano Ronaldo, one of the greatest footballers of the modern era. Several Uzbek players have had the chance to share the field with Ronaldo, either as teammates or opponents. Here’s a look at these memorable encounters.

Jaloliddin Masharipov: From Teammate to Rival

Jaloliddin Masharipov made history as the first Uzbek footballer to play alongside Cristiano Ronaldo. He was part of the Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr when Ronaldo joined the team in 2023. Until Ronaldo’s arrival, Masharipov wore the iconic number 7 jersey, which he graciously handed over to the Portuguese star, opting for number 77 instead. The duo played several matches together before Masharipov transferred to the Greek club Panserraikos.

However, their story didn’t end there. In February 2024, Masharipov joined the Iranian club Istiklol, setting up a reunion with Ronaldo, but this time as an opponent. In the 2024/25 Asian Champions League Elite season, Istiklol faced Al-Nassr at home. Masharipov played against his former teammate Ronaldo, with the match ending 1-0 in favor of the Saudi club.

Eldor Shomurodov: A Memorable Encounter in Serie A

Uzbek national team captain Eldor Shomurodov faced Ronaldo during his stint with Italian club Genoa in the 2020 season. On December 13, 2020, Genoa played against Juventus, where Ronaldo came off the bench in the 73rd minute. During the match, Shomurodov successfully dispossessed Ronaldo in a noteworthy duel. Despite this, Juventus secured a 3-1 victory.

Maksim Shatskikh: A Champions League Clash

Former Uzbekistan national team forward Maksim Shatskikh faced Ronaldo during a UEFA Champions League match in 2007. Shatskikh represented Dynamo Kyiv, while Ronaldo played for Manchester United. Shatskikh started the game but was substituted early in the second half. Manchester United won the match 4-2, with Ronaldo scoring twice.

Azizbek Ganiev: A Battle in Asia

Azizbek Ganiev played against Ronaldo in the 2023/24 Asian Champions League play-off round when Al-Nassr faced Shabab Al-Ahli. Ganiev played the full 90 minutes for Shabab Al-Ahli, while Ronaldo starred for Al-Nassr. The match ended in a 4-2 victory for Al-Nassr. Ganiev later transferred to Al-Bateh in the summer of 2024.

Sardor Rashidov: A Bench Appearance at the Club World Cup

In the 2017 FIFA Club World Cup, Sardor Rashidov’s Al-Jazira faced Ronaldo’s Real Madrid. Although Rashidov remained on the bench, the match was historic as Real Madrid secured a 2-1 victory with Ronaldo scoring one of the goals. Rashidov joined Al-Jazira from Qatari club Al-Jaish, sharing the squad with Brazilian player Romarinho, who scored against Real Madrid.

Otabek Shukurov: A Recent Encounter

Otabek Shukurov faced Ronaldo in the 19th round of the 2024/25 Saudi Championship when Al-Fayha played against Al-Nassr. Shukurov started for Al-Fayha and played until the 80th minute, while Ronaldo scored for Al-Nassr in the 74th minute. The match concluded with a 3-0 victory for Al-Nassr.